Needs of Families Post-International Adoption

Adoption is becoming a more normal way of life in the United States, totaling more than 7, 000 children in 2013; as a result, more attention is being drawn to the services and experiences of those who have adoption as part of their lives (Bureau of Consular Affairs, 2014). The needs of families adopting internationally are areas that require further research, specifically focusing on the pre- and post-adoption services provided and what additional services are needed. The goal of this study was to examine the needs of families post-international adoption. Qualitative interviews were conducted with eight women who had adopted from either China or Russia. Interviews focused on participants\u27 experience adopting with an emphasis primarily on their post-adoption challenges and needs. Several themes were identified: (a) support, (b) educational needs, (c) community services, and (d) material needs. This study suggests that families post-international adoption have needs that can be fulfilled through services provided by relationships, the adoption agency, or other community services. While this research study is exploratory in nature, it holds implications for social work practice and identifies areas for future post-adoption research