How to Choose between an Open and a Semi Closed Adoption
(433 Words)
There is no one right choice between selecting an open or semi-closed adoption. It will depend on your family and your needs. Think long and carefully because the consequences of this decision are long lasting and far reaching.
No matter what, you will be the parent of this child. An open adoption allows for much more interaction between the birth parent(s) and you and the child. In many cases there will be visits. You may also feel compelled to send correspondence on a regular basis such as photographs and other items. You may do so in a semi-closed adoption as well, but the understanding is that it will be more separated, and you may choose to pull back a little more. Think about how much effort to which you want to go in order to keep this person in your child’s life.
Part of the decision on whether to have an open or semi-closed adoption will depend on characteristics of the biological parents. If the parents had major issues, which cost them custody of their child, such as if they were abusive, then you may want them to be out of the child’s and your life as much as possible.
Think about what is best for your child. Some adoptive parents want the child’s biological parents to be a part of their child’s life because they feel that it will be best for them. They may want the child to understand that they are loved by two and not just one family. Other adoptive parents may feel that it will be confusing or more difficult with an open adoption.
You also have to think about your own comfort level. Some adoptive parents may feel like they are competing with the biological parents if the adoption is open. Of course, this is not usually the case, but it may feel like it. Some may feel like an open adoption would provide too much intrusion into their lives whereas others will feel such gratitude to the biological parents of their child that they want to be as open as possible. You may want to share the joy of the child to the extent possible.
You may need to consider the wants of the prospective parents. Some adoptive parents are open to different options and will go with what the biological parent wants in order for the adoption to go through.
When adopting a child, prospective parents must think long and hard about whether to choose between an open and semi-closed adoption. The above factors are some to consider when making this decision.
Sources:
http://life.familyeducation.com/adoption/birth-parents/45775.html
http://www.adoptionservices.org/birth_mother/birth_mother_open_closed_adoption.htm