Adopting a child can bring you untold joy. Yet, you may experience some anxiety while waiting for the adoption to go through. You may even begin to wonder if it will all work out.
Every family and, therefore, every adoption is different. However, there are some common adoption fears that most families face, as detailed below.
1. The duration of the process
The paperwork and the waiting period involved can feel frustrating at times. Yet, it will be worth it in the end.
2. Worries about bonding
During the adoption process, and even after it is complete, you might worry whether the bonding process will be a smooth affair. The truth is that bonding is never immediate. As adoptive parents, you need to take time to develop the bond by winning the child’s trust.
3. Worries about family reactions
Adoptive parents tend to worry about how their families will react to the adopted child. Will the child fit in with the family? Will they be ostracized? These questions come with untold anxiety, especially if the family is not likely to embrace an adopted child. Prior communication to family members about your intentions to adopt a child will prevent any surprises.
Remember, you need to clarify that you made the decision after careful consideration, and you feel confident enough to parent the child. You might lose a couple of people along the way, as well as deal with some negative remarks about the choices you’ve made. Yet, do not expend a lot of time and energy in dealing with such issues. Instead, focus your energy on being the best parent the child you adopt will ever have.
Adoption is special in many ways. Finding out more about the adoption process can put your mind at ease and help you prepare for any challenges that arise along the way.
