The need for a research-oriented approach to adoption

Description:

There are over 70,000 adoptions of children in the United States every year, with a majority coming from foster care. Despite adoptions being more diverse and 75% of adoptive parents having a positive relationship with the birth parents, some are calling for adoption to end because it is too traumatic for children.

In this episode, Naomi and Ian are joined by Ryan Hanlon, the acting CEO and President of the National Council for Adoption. Ryan explains that many children have experienced abuse and neglect prior to their adoption and adoption itself can actually be a necessary intervention in their lives. Research from the National Council for Adoption also suggests that adoptive parents are focused on ensuring their adoptive children receive the supportive services they need. With higher rates of children in foster care, Ryan believes we need to do a better job of educating both expectant parents on what their options are and the public on what being an adoptive parent looks like.

Resources:

Adoption: By the Numbers | National Council for Adoption

The Multiethnic Placement Act and Transracial Adoption 25 Years Later | Department of Health and Human Services

Let’s restart the adoption movement | Arthur C. Brooks | The New York Times

Show notes:

01:30 | What does adoption look like in the United States?

05:50 | Effects of adoption on children

09:30 | What explains the increased age of adoptive children?

13:40 | Evidence shows that transracial adoption is not a factor in determining the well-being of an adopted child

18:35 | Are there enough families out there to meet the needs of children in foster care?

26:25 | What can policymakers do to encourage foster care among middle-class Americans?