Characteristics and perspectives of families waiting to adopt a child with Down syndrome

Abstract

Purpose: The study's purpose was to obtain information on the characteristics and perspectives of families interested in adopting children with Down syndrome. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was administered to individuals and families on a waiting list to adopt children with Down syndrome. Information on (1) demographic, (2) family structure, (3) Down syndrome exposure, (4) Down syndrome knowledge, (5) reasons for considering adoption, (6) adoption process, and (7) perspective on raising children with Down syndrome was assessed.

Exploring Adoption with Clients: The Need for Adoption Education Within the Genetic Counseling Profession

“…They were not aware of current adoption practices and laws, and they were unsure of where to locate additional resources and referrals. In fact, many health professionals are not even aware that families are currently waiting to adopt infants with certain disabilities (Lindh et al 2007). In one study, Lindh and colleagues (2007) found that 88% of those families waiting to adopt a child with Down syndrome agreed that health professionals must be informed about the availability of such families and individuals.…”

Setting a public health research agenda for Down syndrome: Summary of a meeting sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Down Syndrome Society

“…Effective strategies are needed to communicate balanced, accurate information to parents about health concerns and challenges in raising a child with DS, instead of the “worst‐case scenario” that is often presented [Hedov et al, 2002]. Three promising strategies for educating members of the broader community about DS are high school peer buddies [Hughes et al, 2001], interactions at work and in other social roles [Bryant et al, 2006; Lindh et al, 2007], and training for school teachers that combines classroom instruction with structured fieldwork [Campbell et al, 2003].…”