Open adoption has become the “gold star” approach to adoption. Stories of families that live blissfully in harmony or agencies that require mandatory visits, regardless of situation can make it appear that the concept is beyond questioning. However, just like the multitude of differences that present in every adoption, understanding the inherent benefits and risks of open adoption can help you to make the best decision for your child and family. Click here for your free downloadable ebook for expectant mothers.

As an agency, Tapestry believes strongly that an integral part of the healing journey for the biological mother is the ability to access ongoing information through updates and pictures of her child. Some birthmothers resist this option at first, believing to be too painful to maintain any level of contact. However, we ask our families to provide this information via a closed portal, regardless of the current wishes of birth mother, as we have seen that in time, these vital details are important to her process. Some birth parents seek ongoing contact with the adoptive parents, and some mothers seek ongoing visits with the child. The number of visits, location and level of ongoing relationship can vary greatly from family to family. Understanding not only the beautiful benefits of open adoption, but the inherent risks is a vital piece of your adoption education.

Positive aspects of and Open Adoption Plan

1. The child can have a better understanding of their adoption story and their identity, as they have access to information about their birth family, heritage, and background.
2. Open adoption allows for ongoing contact between the child and their birth family, which can help maintain a sense of connection and reduce feelings of abandonment.
3. Birth parents can have peace of mind knowing that their child is being cared for and loved in a safe environment. They may also feel reassured by being able to witness their child’s growth and well-being.
4. Open communication between adoptive and birth families can lead to mutual support, shared experiences, and the establishment of extended support networks for the child.
5. The child can develop a sense of belonging to both families, benefiting from the love, guidance, and resources of both sets of parents.

Intrinsic Risks of Open Adoption

1. Open adoption can be emotionally challenging for all parties involved, especially if expectations for contact and involvement are not adequately discussed or understood.
2. Birth parents may experience grief and difficult emotions as they witness their child growing up in another family, which could potentially lead to ongoing emotional distress.
3. Ongoing contact with birth parents could be overwhelming for the adoptive family, leading to boundaries being crossed or conflicting parenting styles.
4. There is a possibility of the child experiencing confusion or conflicting loyalties as they navigate relationships with both adoptive and birth families.
5. In some cases, birth parents may struggle with substance abuse or mental health issues, which could pose risks to the child’s well-being if contact is not appropriately monitored or limited.
6. Working with an agency that practices ethically is vital to the success of an open adoption.

It is important to note that each open adoption situation is unique, and the positives and negatives can vary depending on individual circumstances and the level of openness agreed upon. Effective communication, transparency, and clear boundaries are essential in ensuring the positive aspects of open adoption are maximized while managing the potential risks involved.

Tapestry Adoption educates all of their families on the benefits and risks of open adoption. Reach out today if you’d like to meet a waiting adoptive family in Indiana.