Abstract
A substantial body of research on special needs adoption characterizes the adoption process itself and the outcomes. However, much of this research lacks an in-depth view of the adoptive families. Genetic counseling should include discussing the option of adoption with clients who learn pre- or postnatally of a diagnosis or suspected disability, and deeper insight into families who adopt children with special needs will aid this discussion. The goal of this study was to understand the motivations and experiences of families who adopt children with special needs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with twelve mothers who adopted children with a variety of special needs. The interviews focused on three major areas: (1) Motivations for adopting a child with special needs, (2) Acceptance of the adoption among others, and (3) Messages to others about special needs adoptions. We analyzed and coded interview transcripts using grounded theory. Participants reported numerous motivations including previous experiences with individuals with special needs and religious beliefs. Although some mothers experienced initial negative reactions, overall they felt that their other children, family members, and friends accepted their decision to adopt a child with special needs. The adoptive mothers felt no negativity toward the children’s birth mothers; rather, they were extremely grateful for their decisions. The mothers also expressed concerns that people are unaware of the many families waiting to adopt children with special needs, and more exposure is necessary. Our findings provide valuable insight into families who adopt children with special needs, and this may in turn help birth parents who are considering making an adoption plan. Sharing results from this study with genetic counselors and other health professionals can help them approach this option with greater ease, and hopefully help them provide support and referrals to clients involved in special needs adoptions.