Blog - Should Adoptive Parents be Friends with Birth Parents

Adoption is a situation that can create guarded hearts on both the part of the adoptive parents and the birth parents. Plus, forging a relationship between adoptive parents and birth parents can be anxiety producing for both parties. Both parties must decide to put aside their fears and put the child first for that relationship to be beneficial.  An open mind is the first step towards a healthy relationship between adoptive parents and birth parents that can benefit everyone involved:

The child knows that they are valued and loved by both parties

The birth parent has peace of mind that their child is well cared for

The adoptive family and child have access to health and birth family history

The child can witness a great example of teamwork between the two sets of parents

Both sets of parents share the milestones and achievements of the child

Children show better emotional outcomes with a collaborative relationship between the adoptive parents and the birth parents

Every adoption story is unique. Sometimes, it is not the best choice to have open communication between the adoptive parents and the birth parents. The birth parents may be engaged in an unhealthy or unsafe lifestyle. But, when adoptive parents and birth parents can form a healthy relationship, it promotes connection, openness, and improves a child’s sense of well-being.

Open vs. Closed Adoption, A Birth Mom’s Advice - Focus on the Family

Open Adoption | Social Sciences and Humanities | Research Starters | EBSCOhost