Adoption, Emotion, and Identity


Book Description

Exploring adoption in the Pacific, this book goes beyond the commonplace structural-functional analysis of adoption as a positive “transaction in parenthood.” It examines the effects it has on adoptees’ inner sense of self, their conflicted emotional lives, and familial relationships that are affected by a personal sense of rejection and not belonging. This account is theoretically rooted in ethnopsychology, based on field work conducted across multiple research sites in the Chuuk Lagoon, its neighboring Chuukic-speaking atolls, and persons from neighboring Micronesian island communities.




Korean Adoptees and Transnational Adoption


Book Description

This book investigates the experiences of South Koreans adopted into Western families and the complexity of what it means to "feel identity" beyond what is written in official adoption files. Korean Adoptees and Transnational Adoption is based on ethnographic fieldwork in South Korea and interviews with adult Korean adoptees from the United States, Australia, Canada, Switzerland and Sweden. It seeks to probe beneath the surface of what is "known" and examines identity as an embodied process of making that which is "unknown" into something that can be meaningfully grasped and felt. Furthermore, drawing on the author’s own experiences as a transnational, transracial Korean adoptee, this book analyses the racial and cultural negotiations of "whiteness" and "Korean-ness" in the lives of adoptees and the blurriness which results in-between. Highlighting the role of memory and the body in the formation of identities, this book will be useful to students and scholars of Korean Studies, Ethnicity Studies and Anthropology as well as Asian culture and society more generally.




Foster the Family


Book Description

There are great rewards that come along with being a foster parent, yet there are also great challenges that can leave you feeling depleted, alone, and discouraged. The many burdens of a foster parent's day--hurting children, struggling biological parents, and a broken system--are only compounded by the many burdens of a foster parent's heart--confusion, anxiety, heartache, anger, and fear. With the compassion and insight of a fellow foster parent, Jamie C. Finn helps you see your struggles through the lens of the gospel, bringing biblical truths to bear on your unique everyday realities. In these short, easy-to-read chapters, you'll find honest, personal stories and practical lessons that provide encouragement and direction from God's Word as you walk the journey of foster parenting.




Seven Core Issues in Adoption and Permanency


Book Description

Based on a hugely successful US model, the Seven Core Issues in Adoption is the first conceptual framework of its kind to offer a unifying lens that was inclusive of all individuals touched by the adoption experience. The Seven Core Issues are Loss, Rejection, Shame/Guilt, Grief, Identity, Intimacy, and Mastery/Control. The book expands the model to be inclusive of adoption and all forms of permanency: adoption, foster care, kinship care, donor insemination and surrogacy. Attachment and trauma are integrated with the Seven Core Issues model to address and normalize the additional tasks individuals and families will encounter. The book views the Seven Core Issues from a range of perspectives including: multi-racial, LGBTQ, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, African-American, International, openness, search and reunion, and others. This essential guide introduces each Core Issue, its impact on individuals, offering techniques for growth and healing.




The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process


Book Description

Are you considering adoption or currently going through the adoption process? If so, "The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process" is the perfect short read book for you. This insightful guide takes you on a journey through the highs and lows of the adoption process, providing valuable information and emotional support along the way. In "The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process," you will find a comprehensive table of contents that covers every aspect of the adoption journey. From the initial feelings of hope and excitement to the challenges and adjustments that come with building trust and embracing the journey, this book covers it all. The first few chapters focus on the emotional rollercoaster that many prospective adoptive parents experience. You will learn about the hope and excitement that comes with starting the adoption process, as well as the uncertainty and anxiety that can arise. The book also delves into the longing for a child and the worry about approval, providing guidance and reassurance for those going through these emotions. As the adoption process progresses, the book explores the complex emotions of loss and grief that can arise. It also delves into the important topics of attachment and bonding, as well as the joy and fulfillment that come with welcoming a child into your family. "The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process" also addresses the practical aspects of adoption, such as adjustment and transition, building trust, and identity and self-discovery. It provides valuable insights into the challenges and adjustments that adoptive parents may face, as well as the importance of support and community throughout the process. The book also covers the topic of self-care for adoptive parents, emphasizing the importance of taking care of oneself during this emotional journey. It explores the concept of openness in adoption and provides guidance on how to navigate the finalization and celebration of the adoption. To ensure that all your questions are answered, the book includes a section of frequently asked questions, as well as an invitation for readers to reach out with any additional questions or comments they may have. As a bonus, "The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process" offers a free copy of "How To Be A Super Mom," a guide filled with practical tips and advice for busy moms. If you are looking for a comprehensive and emotionally supportive guide to the adoption process, "The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process" is a must-read. Order your copy today and embark on this transformative journey with confidence and support. This title is a short read. A Short Read is a type of book that is designed to be read in one quick sitting. These no fluff books are perfect for people who want an overview about a subject in a short period of time. Table of Contents The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Adoption Process Hope and Excitement Uncertainty and Anxiety Longing for a Child Worry about Approval Loss and Grief Attachment and Bonding Joy and Fulfillment Adjustment and Transition Building Trust Identity and Self-Discovery Challenges and Adjustments Support and Community Embracing the Journey Self-Care for Adoptive Parents Openness in Adoption Finalization and Celebration Continuing Support Frequently Asked Questions Have Questions / Comments?




Rooted in Adoption


Book Description

There may be times when adoptive parents need guidance-plus real insight, real knowledge, and the voice of an expert. Only adoptees can truly unravel the complexities of the adoption journey. Rooted in Adoption: A Collection of Adoptee Reflections is a collections of short narratives from those who have been adopted. Adoptees of various ages, backgrounds, and experiences discuss the joys of adoption and the struggles of living a life of secrecy and lost identity. Internationally recognized trauma expert, motivational speaker, and psychotherapist Jules Alvarado, shares her insight on adoption related trauma.




Telling the Truth to Your Adopted or Foster Child


Book Description

Many adopted or foster children have complex, troubling, often painful pasts. This book provides parents and professionals with sound advice on how to communicate effectively about difficult and sensitive topics, providing concrete strategies for helping adopted and foster children make sense of the past so they can enjoy a healthy, well-adjusted future. Approximately one of every four adopted children will have adjustment challenges related to their separation from the birth family, earlier trauma, attachment difficulties, and/or issues stemming from the adoption process. Common complicating issues of adopted children are feelings of rejection, abandonment, or confusion about their origins. While many foster and adoptive parents and even many professionals are reluctant to communicate openly about birth histories, silence only adds to the child's confusion and pain. This revised and significantly expanded edition of the award-winning Telling the Truth to Your Adopted or Foster Child equips parents with the knowledge and tools they need to communicate with their adopted or foster child about their past. Revisions include coverage of significant new research and information regarding the importance of understanding the child's trauma history to his or her well-being and successful adjustment in his foster or adoptive family. The authors answer such questions as: How do I share difficult information about my child's adoption in a sensitive manner? When is the right time to tell my child the whole truth? How do I obtain more information on my child's history? Detailed descriptions of actual cases help the parent or caregiver find ways to discover the truth (particularly in closed and international adoption cases), organize the information, and explain the details of the past gently to a toddler, child, or young adult who may find it frightening or confusing.




The Primal Wound


Book Description

Originally published in 1993, this classic piece of literature on adoption has revolutionised the way people think about adopted children. Nancy Verrier examines the life-long consequences of the 'primal wound' - the wound that is caused when a child is separated from its mother - for adopted people. Her argument is supported by thorough research in pre- and perinatal psychology, attachment, bonding and the effects of loss.




Adopted and Wondering


Book Description

This art therapy book helps children cope with the emotional impact of adoption. Children can use this book's interactive exercises to realize that their birth parents were good people who loved them but were unable to give them a good home; understand that they were placed, rather than abandoned; and develop a strong sense of personal identity. The interactive drawing exercises help children explain in pictures what they are unable to say in words.




Adoption and Loss


Book Description

Evelyn Robinson, OAM, has written four books about adoption separation and reunion. This is her first book. What becomes of women who are separated from their children by adoption? Why do so many adopted people feel such a strong desire to seek out their families of origin? In what ways are families with adopted children different from other families? This book by Evelyn Robinson provides the answers to these questions and many others.'Adoption and Loss - The Hidden Grief' was first published in 2000. A revised edition was published in 2003 and the 21st Century edition was published in 2018.