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Adoption - Results (39 Publications)

Title: Benchmarks of GLBT Cultural Competency.
Published: 2008
Available from: Human Rights Campaign
http://www.hrc.org/
1640 Rhode Island Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20036
Document available online at: https://www.hrc.org/issues/parenting/adoptions/8445.htm
Abstract: When GLBT individuals or couples begin their journey to adoption, the first and most critical step is finding an agency that is welcoming. This often occurs through word-of-mouth references shared by experienced adoptive parents, as well as through websites dedicated to advocacy and education within the GLBT community. The HRC Foundation will provide the All Children - All Families Seal to agencies that achieve the 10 benchmarks described in this document. (Author abstract)

Title: Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: This reference book provides information about the process and legal requirements governing adoption in the United States, including private and public adoption and domestic and intercountry adoption. It uses a developmental perspective on basic medical and behavioral health information to educate parents and professionals about issues relevant to children who were or will be adopted or who have experienced foster care, and reviews the different types of adoptions and the professionals who are involved in the process, the laws regarding adoption in each State, and intercountry adoption requirements. The first chapters address: the history of adoption in the United States, approaches to adoption, the adoption process, and openness in adoption; transracial adoption, outcomes of transracial adoption, stepparent adoptions, and adoptions by nontraditional families; and legal issues and financial aspects of adoption, including confidentiality, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of children, fees for domestic infant and intercountry adoption, financial assistance, tax credits, and the Family Medical Leave Act of 1993. Chapter 4 reviews procedures for public adoption, and Chapter 5 describes steps in domestic infant adoptions. Chapter 6 explains intercountry adoption, including the application process, U.S. immigration requirements, basic approaches to intercountry adoption, and adjusting to a new life. Medical, developmental, and mental health considerations when adopting are reviewed in Chapter 7, with information on adopting children with special needs, guidelines for working with pediatricians, health considerations for children adopted from foster care, and health considerations for intercountry adoption. The final chapter focuses on post-adoption issues and provides guidance on children's development and understanding of adoption, talking to children about adoption, post-adoption support and services, working with schools and teachers, and multicultural adoptive families. Extensive appendices include charts that describe State laws on access to birth records, adoption regulations, infant safe haven laws, timeframes for consent and revocation of parental rights, and readoption requirements. 2 boxes, 7 tables, and numerous references.

Title: Labor of the Heart: A Parent's Guide to the Decisions and Emotions in Adoption.
Author(s): Whitten, Kathleen L.
Published: 2008
Available from: Rowman and Littlefield
http://www.rowmanlittlefield.com
4501 Forbes Blvd., Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
Abstract: Designed for first-time adoptive parents, this book discusses the transition to adoptive parenthood and the challenges of making decisions during the adoption process. It includes special techniques to help parents resolve their feelings about infertility and their emotions and uncertainties about adoption. Myths about adopted children are countered with positive scientific findings, and guidance is given on making the decision to adopt a particular child. Additional chapters discuss: the adoption process; using your heart and brain when making adoption decisions; how parents can use the waiting time to begin to give their child a secure, loving home to come into; myths about adoptive parenthood; making the adoption commitment; knitting the tendrils of love around an adopted child; and the spiritual aspect of adoption and how a spiritual or religious practice supports parenting. The text includes exercises in a workbook format to use for personal reflection. Numerous references.

Title: Domestic Infant Adoption. (Chapter 5 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: This chapter explains the process prospective parents go through when adopting an infant in the United States. It reviews key considerations when developing an adoption plan, choosing an agency to work with, developing parent profiles, engaging in agency-identified adoptions, and engaging in parent-identified and agency-assisted adoptions. The termination of parental rights, characteristics and motivations of birth parents, and early and long-term post-relinquishment issues are also discussed.

Title: Intercountry Adoption. (Chapter 6 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: The Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption is explained, along with the process of international adoption. The application process, U.S. immigration requirements, basic approaches to intercountry adoption, the matching process, processing the adoption, adjusting to a new life, and readoption for intercountry adoption are discussed.

Title: The Influence of an Adoption Experiment on Social Policy. (Chapter 5 in Child Welfare Research: Advances for Practice and Policy.)
Author(s): Festinger, Trudy.
Published: 2008
Available from: Oxford University Press
http://www.oup.com/us/
198 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10016-4314
Abstract: This chapter discusses how research findings from a random controlled trial of an intervention designed to speed adoptions by streamlining the court process in cases where adoption is likely impacted social policy and the passage of legislation in New York State. The experimental intervention permitted the filing of an adoption petition while the termination of parental rights was pending in 119 service cases so that the adoption proceeding remained on the court calendar and with the same judge who presided over the freeing. 4 tables and 19 references.

Title: Together in Time: How Creative Therapies Helped a Family Who Adopted Two Boys With Attachment Difficulties.
Author(s): Royce, Ruth.;Royce, Ed.
Published: 2008
Available from: British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF)
http://www.baaf.org.uk/
Skyline House, 200 Union Street
London SE1 0LX
Abstract: Told through the narratives of the adoptive parents, this book describes the challenges of coping with two adopted children with attachment disorders and learning disabilities and highlights the effectiveness of creative therapies. Chapters describe the anxieties, expectations, and vulnerabilities of the parents and children, the decision to adoption, fears the family is falling apart, experiences with music and art therapy, and the decision to adopt a second time.

Title: Big Steps For Little People: Parenting Your Adopted Child.
Author(s): Foster, Celia.
Published: 2008
Available from: Jessica Kingsley Publishers
http://www.jkp.com
400 Market St.
Suite 400
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Abstract: This book describes the experiences of a mother of two adopted children and examines the issues that many adoptive families encounter, including the development of children with attachment problems and strategies for tackling behavior difficulties. Real-life anecdotes are included with suggestions and strategies for other adoptive parents. The text begins with an exploration of the feelings of a former foster child and then provides chapters that address: settling in and ground rules for adults, children, and schools; behavior modification techniques; chores and tasks; the grieving process for adopted children; neurological development in children; games that encourage bonding and trust; disclosing family history; dealing with emotions of adopted children; different types of behaviors and behavior difficulties; control issues faced by adoptive families; dealing with the effects of difficult behavior; and communication strategies and listening skills. A list of additional resources on parenting is provided.

Title: Adopting in the United States. (Chapter 1 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: The history of adoption in the United States is reviewed and information is provided on different views of adoption, reasons people consider adoption, agency and independent adoptions, and different approaches to adoption. The steps in the adoption process are described, and research findings on outcomes of adoptions are shared. 4 tables.

Title: Are Adoption Policies Fair?
Author(s): Hiber, Amanda.
Published: 2008
Available from: Greenhaven Press
http://www.gale.com
Thomson Gale
PO Box 9187
Farmington Hills, MI 48333
Abstract: Part of a series that provides a wide range of opinions on individual social issues, this volume focuses on the fairness of adoption policies. It discusses: the advantages and disadvantages of open birth records and legislative efforts to open records; the ethical issues involved in photolists of children awaiting adoption; whether intraracial adoptions should be prioritized over transracial adoptions; whether gays and lesbians should be allowed to adopt; the advantages and disadvantages of birth father registries; whether single people should be given the same opportunity as coupes to adopt; China's new adoption restrictions; whether the U.S. government should strengthen regulations on international adoptions; and whether the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children should be reformed. 44 references.

Title: Legal Issues and Financial Aspects of Adoption. (Chapter 3 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: This chapter reviews the financial and legal issues that parents and professionals may face during the adoption process, including confidentiality and privacy, the interstate placement of children, the responsibilities of States regarding a child's health care, safe haven legislation, financial assistance and adoption subsidies, and unpaid leaves of absence for parents. 2 boxes and 2 tables.

Title: Parenting a Child Who Has Been Sexually Abused: A Guide for Foster and Adoptive Parents
Published: 2008
Available from: Child Welfare Information Gateway
http://www.childwelfare.gov
Children's Bureau/ACYF
1250 Maryland Avenue, SW
Eighth Floor
Washington, DC 20024
Document available online at: http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_abused/index.cfm
Printable version (PDF): http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_abused/f_abused.pdf
Abstract: Many factors affect how children react to and recover from sexual abuse. Parents play an important role in their children?s recovery. This factsheet includes information to help foster and adoptive parents of children who have been sexually abused. It includes information about child sexual abuse, tips for establishing guidelines for safety and privacy in the family, and guidance on when and how to seek help, if needed.

Title: Public Adoption. (Chapter 4 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: The reasons children enter the care and custody of the State are explained and the steps prospective parents take to adopt a child through a public agency are reviewed. The steps include the application process, pre-placement training, the referral or match process, placement planning, and the post-placement process.

Title: Navigating the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children: Advocacy Tips for Child Welfare Attorneys.
Author(s): Sankaran, Vivek S.
Published: 2008
Journal Name: ABA Child Law Practice
v. 27, 3, May 2008, p. 33, 38-41
Available from: ABA Center on Children and the Law
http://www.abanet.org/child
740 15th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20005
Printable version (PDF): http://www.law.umich.edu/centersandprograms/ccl/courseofferings/Documents/Navigating%20the%20ICPC.pdf
Abstract: This article discusses strategies that child welfare attorneys can use to overcome barriers to permanency created by the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC). Tips are provided for determining whether compliance with the ICPC is required, ensuring the home study is completed promptly, challenging placement denials, and seeking reform of the ICPC. 21 references.

Title: Medical, Developmental, and Mental Health Considerations. (Chapter 7 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: This chapter covers a variety of issues related to the medical, developmental, and mental health considerations for parenting children who were adopted. It addresses adoption in cases of fetal anomaly and genetic risks, adopting a child with a developmental or chronic disability, and adopting a child with special needs. Guidelines are provided for working with pediatricians, and information is given on health and mental health considerations for children adopted from foster care and internationally, obtaining medical information, and necessary parenting tools and skills. Additional tips are provided for travel preparations for adopting internationally, the trip home, and behavioral health considerations in intercountry adoptions.

Title: Finding Families for African American Children: The Role of Race and Law in Adoption from Foster Care.
Author(s): Smith, Susan Livingston.;McRoy, Ruth.;Freundlich, Madelyn.;Kroll, Joe.
Published: 2008
Available from: Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute
http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/
525 Broadway, 6th floor
New York, NY 10012
Document available online at: http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/research/2008_05_mepa.php
Printable version (PDF): http://www.adoptioninstitute.org/publications/MEPApaper20080527.pdf
Abstract: This paper examines the impact of MEPA-IEP on the adoption outcomes of African American children from the child welfare system by addressing the five questions posed by the U.S. Civil Rights Commission at its hearing in September 2007. While some of these questions can be answered succinctly, others are much more complex and nuanced. The questions were: 1. Has the enactment of MEPA removed barriers to permanency facing children involved in the child welfare system? 2. Has the enactment of MEPA reduced the amount of time minority children spend in foster care or wait to be adopted? 3. How effectively is the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services enforcing MEPA/IEPA? What impact has enforcement had on best practices in adoption? 4. What is the impact of DHHS' enforcement of MEPA-IEP on the efforts of prospective parents to adopt or provide foster care for minority children? and 5. Does transracial adoption serve children's best interest or does it have negative consequences for minority children, families, and communities? Major findings indicate: The enactment of MEPA-IEP has not resulted in equity in achieving permanency for African American children awaiting adoption; African American children still stay in foster care an average of nine months longer than do White children; The interpretations of MEPA-IEP that have served as the basis for its enforcement run counter to widely accepted best practices in adoption; and The diligent recruitment provision of MEPA-IEP has not been well implemented and is not being enforced. (Author abstract modified)

Title: Native American Transracial Adoptees Tell Their Stories.
Author(s): Simon, Rita J.;Hernandez, Sarah.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lexington Books
http://www.lexingtonbooks.com/
4501 Forbes Blvd., Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
Abstract: This text presents 20 interviews with Native American adoptees raised in non-Native homes that explore complex questions of cultural identity formation. Part 1 of the book describes the impetus and impact of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, court decisions involving children who were members of an Indian tribe, findings from research on Native American children adopted by white parents, and opposition to adoption of Native American children by non-Native Americans. Part 2 explains the characteristics of the participants in the interviews, all of whom were adopted by non-Native Americans at the ages of three days old and three years old. Part 3 presents the 20 interviews that explore placement histories, learning another language, minority status, racism, current relationships with tribes, professional lives, searching for birth families, and thoughts on placing Native Americans with non-Native families. Part 4 summarizes findings from the interviews that indicate all respondents were supportive of the Indian Child Welfare Act and believe that Native children should be raised in Native households whenever possible. Eighteen of the 20 participants, however, believe that non-Native families can raise Native children to be happy, healthy, well-adjusted adults.

Title: Diversity and Adoption. (Chapter 2 in Adoption in the United States: A Reference for Families, Professionals and Students.)
Author(s): Henry, Martha J.;Pollack, Daniel.
Published: 2008
Available from: Lyceum Books, Inc.
http://www.lyceumbooks.com/
5758 S. Blackstone
Chicago, IL 60637
Abstract: Transracial adoption and unique aspects and issues concerning transracial adoption are discussed. Findings from research on the outcomes of transracial adoption are addressed, as well as stepparent adoptions, adoptions by same-sex couples, adoptions by single gay and lesbian individuals, and second-parent adoptions by same-sex couples. 1 table.

Title: Adoption Glossary.
Published: 2008
Available from: National Adoption Center
http://www.adopt.org/
1550 Walnut St., Suite 701
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Document available online at: http://www.adopt.org/assembled/glossary.html
Abstract: A list of adoption terminology and definitions.

Title: Independent Adoption. (Chapter 4 in Adoption: The Essential Guide to Adopting Quickly and Safely)
Author(s): Hicks, Randall.
Published: 2007
Available from: Viking Penguin Inc.
40 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
Abstract: This chapter reviews the basic steps in an independent adoption and provides information on eligibility requirements, the role of the adoption attorney, the home study, and the types of children available. The openness of the adoption is discussed, as well as fees and costs, bringing the baby home directly from the hospital, identified adoptions, and working with out-of-State attorneys.

Title: In Their Parents' Voices: Reflections on Raising Transracial Adoptees.
Author(s): Simon, Rita J.;M. Roorda, Rhonda.
Published: 2007
Available from: Columbia University Press
http://cup.columbia.edu/
Order Department
136 S. Broadway
Irvington, NY 10533
Abstract: This book is the second of two volumes on black and biracial men and women who were adopted primarily in the 1970s by white parents when most of the children were younger than 2 years old. It features narratives from 16 families that discuss reasons for adopting, the adoption process, the challenges and triumphs they encountered in raising their children, and the relationships they have with their adult children and with their children's spouses and children. The parents express their opinions about transracial adoption and the stance taken in the early 1970s in opposition to transracial adoption, and offer recommendations to other adoptive families who are in the process of raising children of color. An introduction traces the history and debates over transracial adoptions in the United States, followed by a summary of the progress of the adopted adults featured in the first volume. Part 2 then provides transcripts of the telephone interviews with the adopted parents. Part 3 draws conclusions from the interviews and summarizes the relationships between the adopted children and their adoptive parents. The book concludes with a list of suggestions for families of transracial adoptees.

Title: Adoption: The Essential Guide to Adopting Quickly and Safely.
Author(s): Hicks, Randall.
Published: 2007
Available from: Viking Penguin Inc.
40 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
Abstract: This text is designed to assist parents in adopting a child domestically or internationally in a year or less. Beginning chapters discuss assessing readiness for adoption, the 14 different types of adoption, and strategies for selecting the right attorney to handle the adoption. Chapters 4 and 5 explain the processes and procedures involved in independent adoptions and in agency adoptions. Criteria for selecting the right agency are reviewed in Chapter 6, and Chapter 7 explains procedures for adopting a child internationally. Strategies for finding a baby to adopt are covered in Chapter 8, including tips for writing a photo-resume letter, networking, and advertising. Chapters 9 and 10 discuss hiring three attorneys to find a child to adopt, and identify red flags that signal risky adoptions. Chapters 11 through 14 address working with the doctor and hospital, the legal steps to a completed adoption, finalizing the adoption and postbirth issues, and surrogacy. The final chapter provides State-by-State information on laws and procedures related to adoption, and contact information for the State adoption office, adoption attorneys, and licensed private agencies. Appendices include a list of recommended reading resources, organizations, and website, and sample letters and forms.

Title: Open Adoption and Mediated Contact Agreements.
Published: 2007
Available from: Corinne Wolfe Children's Law Center
http://ipl.unm.edu/childlaw/
Institute of Public Law
University of New Mexico School of Law
1117 Stanford Avenue NE

Albuquerque, NM 87131
Printable version (PDF): http://ipl.unm.edu/childlaw/docs/0706/OpenAdoption-MediatedContactAgreements.pdf
Abstract: This bulletin explains open adoption and mediated contact agreements, and current law in New Mexico governing open adoption and the Post Adoption Contract Agreement. Best practices for supporting adoptive and birth parents through an open adoption mediation and the development of a Post Adoption Contract Agreement are discussed, along the advantages of open adoption and mediated contact agreements. The bulletin then describes the roles of the judge, caseworker, court advocate, attorneys, CASA volunteer, and Citizen Review Board member in supporting open adoption mediation, and lists guidelines for completing a mediated post adoption contact agreement.

Title: Agency Adoption. (Chapter 5 in Adoption: The Essential Guide to Adopting Quickly and Safely)
Author(s): Hicks, Randall.
Published: 2007
Available from: Viking Penguin Inc.
40 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
Abstract: This chapter reviews the steps involved in agency adoptions. It compares public and private agencies and provides information on: agency licensing, religious affiliation, eligibility requirements of adoptive parents, fees and costs, the home study, the types of children available, the wait for a child, postplacement procedures, placements via foster parenting, adoption exchanges and children with special needs, the openness of the adoption, and working with out-of-State adoption agencies.

Title: State-by-State Review. (Chapter 15 in Adoption: The Essential Guide to Adopting Quickly and Safely)
Author(s): Hicks, Randall.
Published: 2007
Available from: Viking Penguin Inc.
40 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
Abstract: This chapter provides information on laws and procedures related to adoption in each State, along with a listing of every licensed private agency in the State (including if they handle domestic or international adoptions), and each member of the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys. The types of adoptions that are permitted, home study fees, and whether adoption consent can be revoked are addressed.

Title: Unsealing Adoption Records: The Right to Privacy Versus the Right of Adult Adoptees to Find their Birthparents.
Author(s): Deloney, Wayne.
Published: 2007
Journal Name: Whittier journal of child and family advocacy.
v. 7, 1, Fall 2007, p. 117-143
Available from: Whittier Law School
3333 Harbor Boulevard
Cosa Mesa, CA 95959
Abstract: This article explores whether States should allow adult adoptees to access information regarding their birthparents. It begins with a brief history of adoption laws in the United States and California, and then analyzes current State laws that allow access to adoption records. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of allowing open access to birthparent information to adoptees are discussed and changes to current law are proposed. 230 references.

Title: International Adoption. (Chapter 7 in Adoption: The Essential Guide to Adopting Quickly and Safely)
Author(s): Hicks, Randall.
Published: 2007
Available from: Viking Penguin Inc.
40 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
Abstract: This chapter provides an overview of international adoption, discusses the pros and cons of international adoption compared to domestic adoption, and reviews the international adoption process step-by-step. A chart compares the adoption requirements, wait time, costs, travel requirements, common age and gender of available children, and possible health problems in China, Russia, Guatemala, Korea, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Ethiopia. Finally, strategies are provided for finding the best international adoption program.

Title: Cultural Stereotypes Die Hard: The Case of Transracial Adoption.
Author(s): Griffith, Ezra E. H.;Bergeron, Rachel L.
Published: 2006
Journal Name: Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
v. 34, 3, p. 303-314
Available from: American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
http://www.aapl.org/
One Regency Drive
P.O. Box 30

Bloomfield, CT 06002
Abstract: Transracial adoption (commonly understood as the adoption of black children by white families) has been the subject of a persistent debate among adoption specialists, legal advocates, mental health professionals, and even civil rights advocates in this country for a long time. This has been so despite cumulative research evidence indicating that transracial adoptees can thrive and develop into confident adults with strong senses of identity and self-esteem. We contend that the evidence undergirding transracial adoption has not been effectively persuasive because of the tenacious and ubiquitous cultural belief that children and their potential adoptive parents should be matched along racial lines. However, the cultural principle of racial matching has also been diluted by judicial decisions that have narrowly allowed the use of race as one factor rather than as the controlling factor in adoption decisions. This article focuses on the use of a third element -- federal statutory attempts intended to remove race as a controlling factor in child placement decisions. We will show how as a matter of public policy, the statutory efforts were meant to promote race-neutral approaches to adoption and to support transracial adoptions. However, in practice, the statutory attempts may still leave the door open to continued race-matching, which suggests that the cultural preference for race-matching in the construction of families remains powerfully ingrained and difficult to eradicate. As a consequence, transracial adoption appears to maintain its status as a culturally suspect phenomenon. (Author abstract)

Title: Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This comprehensive resource for prospective adoptive parents provides an overview of the process and considerations of adoption. Chapters explain how to make the decision to adopt and describe the wide array of options, from public agency adoption agencies to religious agencies, identified adoption, private agencies, and independent adoption. Choosing an adoption attorney, finding a birth mother, birth mother and birth father characteristics and concerns, meeting the birth mother, the rights of birth fathers, openness in adoption, relative and stepparent adoption, and international adoptions are also discussed. Other topics include: adoption in Canada, adoption of toddlers, adoption of children with special needs, transracial adoption, the home study process, adoption expenses, finding an obstetrician and prenatal care, and preparation for the homecoming. Chapter 10 reviews the unique adoption challenges faced by single-parent families, gay and lesbian couples, unmarried couples, and military families. The appendix reviews State laws and resources for more information about adoption. 75 references.

Title: Special Needs Adoption. (Chapter 15 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter discusses adopting children with special needs, the advantages and disadvantages of adopting from the social services system, characteristics of children in the social welfare system, special needs classifications, and steps for working with a State or private agency. Additional information is provided on preparing for the adoption of a child with special needs, the home study, the adoption process, the assigning of a child, strategies for ensuring a successful transition, and selecting a therapist. Adoption disruption is addressed, as well as creating life books, agreeing to an open adoption, and the challenges faced by children with emotional and behavioral problems, attachment disorders, and those who have been sexually abused. The adoptions of sibling groups and of older children are also considered.

Title: Transracial Adoption. (Chapter 16 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter explores transracial adoption and includes information on biracial child placement, the adoption process, private and public agency adoption, the controversy over transracial adoption, and strategies for providing a child with a positive ethnic identity. Asian adoptees and adoption policies and practices on racial matching are also discussed.

Title: The Home Study. (Chapter 17 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter explains the home study process during an adoption. It discusses when to have a home study, who qualifies to adopt, selecting an agency or independent investigator, the steps of a home process, preparing for a caseworker visit, and types of information the caseworker will want to know. A sample home study is provided, along with information on postplacement supervisory visits.

Title: Adoption Expenses. (Chapter 18 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This article reviews the expenses an adoptive family can expect to pay when they adopt. The costs of domestic infant adoption during independent adoption, agency adoption, and identified and facilitated adoption are discussed, as well as tips for keeping expenses to a reasonable level, paying for a birth mother's living expenses, international adoption expenses, strategies for paying for an adoption, and adoption assistance as an employee benefit. The federal adoption tax credit, State subsidies for nonrecurring costs, and State and federal support for children with special needs are also explained.

Title: Toddler Adoption. (Chapter 14 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter explains why toddlers are available for adoption, signs of attachment difficulties in children ages birth through 5, and different methods of adopting toddlers. Adoption through private and public agencies and international adoption are discussed, as well as strategies for preparing for a toddler, knowing what to expect, language development in toddlers, older siblings and toddlers, pets and toddlers, and adopting more than one toddler.

Title: Infant Adoption. (Chapter 2 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter reviews different types of infant adoption, including adoption through public agencies, private agencies, religious agencies, facilitated agency adoption, and identified agency adoption. Advantages and disadvantages of identified agency adoption are reviewed, and guidelines are offered for choosing an effective private adoption agency.

Title: International Adoption. (Chapter 12 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
57 Littlefield Street

Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: The advantages and disadvantages of choosing international adoption are discussed and the 18 steps of the international adoption process are explained. The procedures for international adoption for U.S. citizens living abroad are also reviewed, as well as health and safety concerns when traveling internationally to adopt a child. A list of popular countries and areas that permit people from abroad to adopt their orphans is provided. Additional information is given on transition issues adopted children face, obtaining citizenship, readopting a child in the United States, medical evaluations, and special health problems of adoptees.

Title: Special Families, Special Considerations. (Chapter 10 in Complete Adoption Book: Everything You Need to Know to Adopt a Child. Third Edition.)
Author(s): Beauvais-Godwin, Laura.;Godwin, Raymond.
Published: 2005
Available from: Adams Media
http://www.adamsmedia.com,
http://www.adamsmediastore.com/
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Avon, MA 02322
Abstract: This chapter reviews the options and special concerns of single parents, single men, gays and lesbians, unmarried couples, and military families who wish to adopt. Questions single parents should ask themselves to find out whether they are ready to become a parent and are adopting for the right reasons are provided.

Title: Development of Data Elements, Instruments, and Implementation Plan for Reporting System Under the Chafee Foster Care Independence Program: Draft Analysis Report and Pilot Test Plan.
Published: 2001
Available from: ICF Consulting
http://www.icfconsulting.com/services/information_technology/it-healthysteps.asp
9300 Lee Highway
Fairfax, VA 22031
Abstract: This draft report is the outcome of a project that is developing data elements, instruments, and an implementation plan for a national data reporting system for the Chafee Foster Care Independence Program (CFCIP). Chapter 1 explains the development of a performance assessment system for Independent Living programs funded under CFCIP and steps the project has taken to analyze current Independent Living data collection sources and reporting instruments, and identify data elements that will meet the new statutory requirements for State CFCIP. The methodology used to identify potential data elements, instruments, and reporting procedures is described, as wel1 as the selection of data elements. Chapter 2 identifies the major data reporting issues and options, evaluates each option, and makes a recommendation for each issue. Chapter 3 describes the major data content issues, make a recommendation for each issue, and presents a set of recommended data elements, with an explanation of why each is recommended. The final chapter describes the pilot test plan to test the feasibility, utility, and practicality of the data collection instruments, to assess the burden of reporting on the States, and to evaluate the feasibility of collecting the data. Appendices include a chart of instruments in use by nine States that measure each of the data elements proposed, suggest data definitions and descriptions, and provide descriptions of each data element currently reported for youth in foster care in the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS). 91 references. Document Scanned.

Title: Characteristics and Challenges of Families Who Adopt Children with Special Needs: An Exploratory Study.
Author(s): Reilly, Thom.
Published: 2000
Available from: Nevada KIDS COUNT
http://kidscount.unlv.edu/
4505 Maryland Pkwy, Box 456002
Las Vegas, NV 89154-6002
Printable version (PDF): http://kidscount.unlv.edu/2001/special_needs.pdf
Abstract: Adoptions of special needs children (children who are older, from racial or ethnic minorities, members of siblings groups and/or who have special emotional, behavioral, developmental and/or medical problems) are increasing in the United States and Nevada, due to many factors, including the scarcity of white infants and federal and state legislation aimed at freeing children from foster care for adoption. The School of Social Work at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) collaborated on an important study of the special needs adoption families in Nevada. The research was intended to provide important baseline data on families adopting special needs children and to help facilitate understanding of the unique issues and challenges faced by special needs adoptive families. It was also intended to help identify the kinds of pre- and post-placement services that are most helpful to special needs children and their families. (Author abstract)

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