Disclosure and identity experiences of adults abandoned as babies: A qualitative study

Figures & data

Table 1. Interview guide

Interview guide—UK adults abandoned as infants

Tell me about how and when you discovered that you were an abandoned baby—a “foundling’”?

(2) Tell me about/describe the moment you found this out? How old were you? Who told you? What happened after you were told, was it an open frequently discussed subject or a closed one?

(3) What do you know of the circumstances surrounding your discovery? Do you have any newspaper cuttings?

(4) Tell me about who discovered you?

(5) Have you ever or do you still maintain a relationship with your “finder” or any hospital staff and what is it like?

(6) Tell me about what happened to you after you were found, were you adopted/fostered?

(7) Did your biological parents leave you with any memorabilia, such as letters, photos or spare clothes?

If yes, what did they leave? Where do you keep them? Have you shared this with anyone?

(b) If no, do you think it would have helped you in any way to have had anything?

(8) What do you think the advantages/disadvantages are in having/not having these things?

(9) Tell me about the way you view/think of your biological mother and father?

(10) Do you have any of your own biological children? If so, how do you think your situation has affected becoming a parent, yourself? Have you told your children, or do you plan to? How is it discussed?

(11) Do you think that being a “foundling” has affected any other areas of your life? And in what ways? For example, do you think that you have better coping strategies, or are more resilient because of your situation?

(12) What do you think about the way you were treated by midwives/the police/social services/foster care? Do you believe the way you were dealt with could have been improved, and in what way?

Table 2. Themes and associated sub-themes

The fundamental experience of disclosure	Distillation and distraction—the role of half-truths	Knowing and the search for identity and self
Timing	Comprehension takes time	The search for validation
Mode: the person disclosing		Searching for roots
		Identity and self