“When You’re Sitting on the Fence, Hope's the Hardest Part”: Challenges and Experiences of Heterosexual and Same-Sex Couples Adopting Through the Child Welfare System

Abstract

This study of 84 foster-to-adopt parents (42 lesbian, gay, and heterosexual couples) examined the challenges that parents faced as they navigated multiple systems during the post-placement period. Some participants described the legal insecurity associated with their role as foster-to-adopt parents as impacting their well-being and attachment. Lack of support services, disorganization within social service agencies, and strained relationships with birth parents were also identified as stressors. Lesbian and gay participants faced additional concerns regarding the security of their placement due to the possibility for discrimination. Participants as a whole identified positive aspects of their experiences within various systems (e.g., supportive social workers).

KEYWORDS:

• adoption
• child welfare
• discrimination
• foster care
• gay
• lesbian
• public adoption

Acknowledgments

This research was funded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Grant R03HD054394, the Wayne F. Placek award from the American Psychological Foundation, and a faculty development grant from Clark University, all awarded to Abbie E. Goldberg.