Adoption Agency Highlights Challenges in Open Adoption Agreements

What's Happening?

Meshan Lehmann, a pregnancy social worker at an adoption agency in Maryland, discusses the complexities and challenges of open adoption agreements. Open adoption, which allows birth parents to maintain contact with their biological children, is based on promises between adoptive and birth parents. Lehmann notes that while many adoptive parents honor these commitments, there are instances where birth parents do not receive the level of post-adoption contact they desire. The article explores various perspectives, including those of birth mothers, adoptees, adoptive parents, and professionals involved in the adoption process. It highlights the fluid nature of open adoption agreements and the emotional and legal challenges that can arise when expectations are not met.

Why It's Important?

Open adoption agreements are significant as they impact the emotional well-being of birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive families. The ability for birth parents to maintain contact with their children can reduce grief and increase satisfaction with the adoption process. However, the lack of enforceable agreements in many states can lead to broken promises and strained relationships. This issue affects thousands of families across the U.S., highlighting the need for better legal protections and support systems for birth parents. The article underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of open adoption and the potential consequences when agreements are not honored.

What's Next?

The article suggests that improving legal protections for birth parents, such as court-enforceable post-adoption contact agreements (PACAs), could help address these challenges. Advocates and professionals recommend that birth parents have their own legal representation during the adoption process and that PACAs be available in every state. These agreements could include provisions for communication frequency, social media boundaries, and mediation options. The article also calls for adoption agencies to better prepare adoptive families for the realities of open adoption and to support birth parents with mental health resources.

Beyond the Headlines

The power dynamics in open adoption can lead to birth parents feeling vulnerable and powerless, as adoptive parents hold legal rights over the child. This can result in birth parents living in fear of losing contact with their child. The article highlights the need for ethical practices in adoption agencies and the importance of maintaining open communication to ensure the well-being of all parties involved. It also touches on the emotional toll of adoption on birth parents, who may experience ongoing grief and depression.