The gift of a child : the experience of adoptive parents

Abstract

This research explores the experience of adoptive parents. It examines and assesses the adoption process and the support that prospective adoptive parents and adoptive parents receive prior to, during the adoption process and after adopting. In Malta there is a high demand for adoption, however the adoption service still needs to be improved as prospective adoptive parents and adoptive parents need to be guided and assisted thoroughly by professionals. Five couples who are married and have adopted between 2003 and 2006 participated in this study. The method of assessment was the same for each couple. All couples participated in an in-depth interview with the aim of getting feedback about the whole adoption process. Findings of the assessments showed that professional support is needed before, throughout and after adoption. Finally, various suggestions are presented, aiming to providing and promoting a better adoption service.