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Late Discovery Adoptees

The term "late discovery adoptees" refers to those who learn they are adopted once they are adults. The impact of the discovery later in life depends on individual circumstances, but research has suggested that it is common to experience some degree of initial shock. Long-term impacts can vary and may include feelings of anger and betrayal directed at adoptive parents, depression, and issues with trust in other close relationships. This section provides information to help late-discovery adoptees begin to understand and process their experiences and find sources of potential support.

Am I Really Adopted? (PDF – 28 KB)
Benevolent Society, Post Adoption Resource Centre (2006)
Provides information for adults who recently learned that they were adopted and provides steps to help begin processing the information.

Discovering You Are Adopted: For Those Who Just found Out (PDF - 38 KB)
Benevolent Society, Post Adoption Resource Centre (2006)
Explores reactions to finding out, reasons the adoption was not disclosed, and how to cope with the discovery.

Late Discovery.org
Provides resources and support for late-discovery adoptees.

Late Discovery Adoptees—LDAs
Adopting.org
Includes resources and information for those who discovered or were told of their adopted status as adults.

Why Wasn't I Told? Making Sense of the Late Discovery of Adoption (PDF - 51 KB)
Benevolent Society, Post Adoption Resource Centre (2001)
Delves into the sensitive issue of late discovery of adoption, presenting results from a study examining the impact of late discovery.

Updated on February 2, 2010