Adoptive Family Articles

Consent to Adoption

Information on how, what and when a consent is taken in an adoption proceeding and for what reasons a birth parent may revoke their consent.

The Rights of Presumed Putative Fathers
In the decades since 1960, out-of-wedlock births have increased dramatically. While much research on childbearing trends and the characteristics of unwed mothers exists, very little is known about putative fathers, the alleged or reputed fathers of children born out-of-wedlock. However, there is an expanding population of putative fathers who wish to play a role in their children's upbringing. ...


Court Jurisdiction and Venue for Adoption Petitions
Adoption is a legal process for making a child a permanent member of a family other than the child's birth family. This legal process falls under the jurisdiction of a court of law in the state where the adoption occurs.


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Does Every Birth Mother Really Need Adoption Counseling?
Many families wonder if counseling or case management is necessary in every adoption.


The Faces of Birth Parents

Birth mothers encompass virtually every age group, ethnicity, marital status, profession and sexual orientation.

Birth Mothers' Financial Needs

Although there is no "typical" birth parent, many birth parents stress a fear of not being able to provide for their child, thus choosing adoption. Each adoption story is unique and each birth parent has their own reasons for choosing adoption.

What About the Birth Parents?

Learn what information birth parents will know about an adoptive family, what information a family will receive about the birth parents and more.

Birth Mother Drug Screening
Is drug screening mandatory? No, drug screens are typically performed by hospitals and doctors should the doctor or hospital suspect drug usage or exposure. Families are provided all test results provided to American Adoptions. ...


Do Birth Parents Change Their Minds?

In adoption, many fear that the birth parents may change their minds. Learn fact from fiction before beginning your adoption journey.