Why does Adoption Carry so much Stigma in Oklahoma?
By Valentina Escobar
Adoption in its many forms has been occurring for centuries, then why is there such a strong stigma attached to it? The stigma attached to adoption only happens if you have a certain attitude about it. It’s okay to have opinions on the topic, but the baseline is that adoption is normal and respected. It is a personal choice made by the birth mother, who knew the difficulty that it would carry. With Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, we will break down the stigmas of adoption and why they’re wrong.
1. Adoption Stigma: the baby will not fit into the family
One of the birth mother’s biggest fears is how a baby will fit into a family. This fear is only natural for every birth mother who is looking to put a baby up for adoption. The truth is, the decision to adopt is not made lightly, and it’s reasonable that the family hoping to adopt is excited at the prospect. The adoption process is long and hard and has many steps attached to it. However, the family not only wants to adopt, but they are ready to love the birth mother’s baby.
Adoption is the opportunity to expand a loving home. Subsequently, any prospective adoptive parents know they are ready to bring in a bundle of joy.
2. Adoption Stigma: birth moms are lazy and do not want the responsibility of a child
Once again, adoption is a difficult choice to make. Luckily with an Oklahoma adoption (with the help of Adoption Choices of Oklahoma), the choice is fully the birth mothers. There might be circumstances that are not right, or you’re not quite ready for a baby. Ultimately, the choice is blame-free, and a woman is not judged for it. Sometimes partners decide to give up their baby for adoption. There should be no reason why you are judged for choosing what’s best.
3. Adoption Stigma: it’s easy to adopt
With adoption comes a long and arduous process that goes with it. Not only do prospective adoptive parents need to hire a lawyer, but they also need to have a home study. The home study includes checking the home to see if it’s suitable for the baby. Officially, there’s also the matching process. Through a private adoption agency, the birth mother goes through the process of choosing a couple to adopt her baby. This part of the process is the most important, as the birth mother will look at qualities she is interested in for the adoption of her baby. Deciding to adopt is a costly venture. Consider adoption seriously before going ahead with it.
4. Adoption Stigma: children need to be raised by their “real” parents
“Real parents” is an umbrella term for people who are willing to raise a child. Although some may consider biological parents as “real parents,” this is simply not true. A “real” parent is a parent willing to provide emotional, economic, and stability to a child. Therefore, it is true that children should be raised by their “real parents.” But when it comes down to it, their real parents are the ones who want to raise their baby. The birth parents are an integral part of a child’s life, and they become part of the baby’s family unit. Adoptive parents are also their real parents, just a little differently.
5. Adoption Stigma: there is no counseling available after an adoption.
Adoption Choices of Oklahoma acknowledges the difficulties that come along with adoption. For that purpose, they offer counseling during and after the adoption process. Many feelings can come with adoption, and with the counselor provided by Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, you can find some relief during the process. An adoption specialist is assigned to birth parent and will help to understand the adoption process and what it entails. In addition, resources are available to birth parents, and Adoption Choices will ensure mental health needs are met.
6. Adoption Stigma: people only adopt when they’re infertile
It may seem that some couples use adoption as the second-best option, but this isn’t true! Many feel the need to expand their families through the means of adoption. However, this also implies that it excludes the numerous LGBT+ couples and single who wish to start a family through adoption. Adoption is a beautiful choice for anyone wishing to start a family. In the end, the unit becomes complete with a baby in its arms. With the help of an adoption agency, you may help others start the journey of their life.
Adoption in Oklahoma is Important
Many people have the wrong idea about adoption, but in the end, all that matters is the choice you make. The stigmas surrounding adoption have only diminished with time and will only continue. It is okay to feel nervous about the adoption process. Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is here for every step!
Looking for choices and considering adoption? Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is a private adoption agency licensed by the state of Oklahoma and a leader in the adoption community. We have been assisting birth parents, children, and adoptive families in Oklahoma for over 19 years. Our staff members are committed to providing an ethical, empowering, and personalized adoption experience to all involved in the adoption process. If you are currently in the process of adopting a baby and have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Toll-free: 800-898-6028 | OKC Local: 405-755-1999 | Tulsa Local: 918-447-7777 | Text: 405-201-6643 | Email
