Adoption disruption occurs when an adoptive placement ends before it is legally finalised. In cases where the adoption order has already been granted but the family can no longer continue, this is referred to as an adoption breakdown. Both situations are deeply challenging, impacting adopters, adoptees, and wider support networks. While rare, these outcomes highlight the complexities of adoption and the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to disruption, as well as strategies to navigate and prevent it. This article delves into the causes of adoption disruption, its implications, and practical steps to manage these difficult situations.
Understanding adoption disruption
Adoption disruption is a heart-wrenching event for all parties, and while it is relatively rare, it can have lasting impacts. According to Professor Laura Machin, adoption disruption often stems from unmet expectations, unaddressed trauma in the child’s past, and a lack of robust support systems for adoptive families. Adopters may feel unprepared to handle the behavioural or emotional needs of the child, while the child may struggle to build trust or cope with the transition into a new family. These difficulties can escalate if not addressed promptly, leading to disruption.
Why does adoption disruption occur?
Several factors can contribute to adoption disruption:
Unresolved trauma
Many adopted children have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse, which can manifest as behavioural challenges that are difficult for adopters to manage.
Mismatch in expectations
Adopters may enter the process with idealistic expectations about forming an immediate bond, which may not align with the reality of parenting a child with complex needs.
Insufficient support
A lack of post-adoption support services, such as therapy, training, or respite care, can leave families feeling overwhelmed and isolated.
Attachment challenges
Children who have experienced disrupted attachments in the past may find it difficult to trust and connect with their adoptive families.
How to navigate adoption disruption
Adoption disruption is deeply distressing, but there are practical steps to help adopters, adoptees, and agencies address the challenges and reduce the likelihood of disruption.
Seek professional support early
Post-adoption support is crucial. Therapists specialising in adoption can help address trauma, improve attachment, and equip adopters with tools to manage difficult situations. Local authorities and voluntary adoption agencies often provide access to adoption specialists, so make these resources a priority as soon as challenges arise.
Create a personalised support plan
Work with your adoption agency or social worker to create a bespoke support plan that focuses on your child’s unique needs. This could include regular therapeutic interventions such as dyadic developmental psychotherapy (DDP), trauma-informed care, or creative therapies like art and play therapy.
Develop a network of peer support
Engage with other adoptive families, either locally or through national organisations such as Adoption UK. Peer groups provide emotional support, practical advice, and a space to share experiences with others who understand the challenges of adoption.
Use educational resources and training
Stay informed by attending training on trauma, attachment, and parenting strategies for adopted children. Resources like the National Association for Therapeutic Parents (NATP) offer courses, webinars, and reading materials tailored to adopters.
Request additional funding
In the UK, adoptive families can apply for the Adoption Support Fund (ASF), which provides financial assistance for therapeutic support for children and families. Advocating for this funding early can make a significant difference in accessing timely support.
Establish a routine and safe environment
Many children thrive with predictability. Create a stable home environment with clear routines and boundaries to help children feel secure. This can help ease behavioural issues and build trust over time.
Prioritise self-care for adopters
Adoption can be emotionally demanding, so prioritise your own mental health. Respite care, mindfulness practices, or even joining a support group for adoptive parents can help you manage stress and maintain resilience.
Building a framework for prevention
Addressing the root causes of adoption disruption requires systemic changes and practical initiatives that improve the experiences of both adopters and adoptees. Here are tangible actions that can be implemented:
Improved pre-adoption assessments
Adoption agencies should ensure thorough assessments of both adopters and children. This includes psychological evaluations of the child to understand their trauma history and support needs, alongside training for adopters on trauma-informed parenting.
Enhanced pre-adoption preparation
Adopters should complete comprehensive training before placement, including modules on attachment theory, managing trauma behaviours, and understanding the adoption journey. In the UK, the Department for Education (DfE) mandates preparation courses, but additional support can be sought through organisations like PAC-UK.
Increased access to post-adoption support
Therapeutic services: Ensure adoptive families can access therapists with specific expertise in adoption and childhood trauma.
Educational support: Schools should receive training on supporting adopted children, who often face additional challenges in education. Pupil Premium Plus funding is available for adopted children in England to help schools provide extra support.
Peer-led mentorship programmes
Adoption support organisations could establish mentorship schemes where experienced adopters guide new families through their journey. This could help normalise challenges and provide hands-on advice.
Crisis intervention services
Governments and local authorities should fund crisis intervention teams specifically for adoption. These teams could provide immediate assistance to families facing acute challenges, potentially preventing disruption.
Advocacy for systemic change
Advocacy groups, such as those mentioned in Ella’s work on adopters’ advocacy, are essential for influencing policy. Campaigns could focus on increasing Adoption Support Fund budgets or lobbying for mandatory nationwide post-adoption services.
Improved matching processes
Technology like predictive analytics could be used to better match children and families based on compatibility, reducing the likelihood of mismatched expectations.
Monitoring and follow-up
Agencies should implement long-term follow-up protocols to regularly check in with adoptive families. Scheduled reviews can help identify and address issues before they escalate into crises.
Final thoughts
Adoption disruption is a painful and complex experience, but with the right support and resources, it can often be avoided. Adopters should not feel ashamed to seek help early—there is strength in recognising challenges and taking action. By advocating for systemic improvements, creating personalised support plans, and building strong networks, adopters can navigate the difficulties of adoption and provide the stability that children need to thrive.
If you are facing challenges in your adoption journey, remember that help is available. Reach out to your agency, local authority, or adoption support organisations to access the resources and guidance you need. Together, we can work towards a future where every adoptive family has the tools to succeed.
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