Adoptive Parenting is different than parenting birth
children. Most people who have not adopted don’t recognize the differences. Fundamental differences include a child’s chronological
age, his developmental age and the age of the family (how long the family has
been together) nature versus nurture, and expectations versus realities. Parenting adopted children, especially those
with special needs or previously undiagnosed needs can produce crisis levels of
stress for families who have no support system.
Why adoptive parents aren't prepared
·
Prospective adoptive parents with limited
experience are unable to comprehend the impact a child can have on a family.
·
Many adoptive parents are not prepared for their
child’s needs.
·
Often adoptive parents cannot find help that
they seek.
·
Medical professionals and therapists do not
always understand the unique needs of adopted children.
· New adoptive parents, especially first time
parents, tend to over parent /try to rush changes. This may result in a
child’s: internalization of anger, resistance to attachment, or control issues.
·
They believe the mythology of adoption.
Successful adoptive families have boundaries that are
open and permeable. They often have a
parenting philosophy that all children need care, love – a sense of personal
altruism. Their approach to parenting is
based on large amounts of guidance and nurturance rather than punishment.
Labels: adjusting, Adoption Support, adoption transition, Attachment, bonding, Family, international adoption, Kids and Teens, Mom's, Parenting, Parenting Teens, Pre-adoption Education, Toddler Adoption