URL:

http://www.aifs.gov.au/afrc/pubs/newsletter/newsletter5.html#secrecy

Keywords:

adult adoptees, closed records, adoptive parenting

Abstract:

As part of a larger study, 144 adult adoptees completed a survey that included a number of background items and standardised questionnaires. Of most relevance to this article was an item that tapped the adoptive family's attitude towards discussing the topic of adoption, with responses ranging from open and honest discussion through to secrecy. Attachment and parental bonding were also assessed. All participants were born in Australia, had an Anglo-Australian background, and were adopted by non-relatives within two years of birth. At the time of the survey, they ranged in age from 18 to 66, with a mean age of 39.2 years. Most were female (76.1%), married or cohabiting (62%), and had completed some education after high school (79%). Approximately six months later, 138 of the original participants again completed the attachment measure, but also completed various interpersonal relationship measures. Fifty-seven of these participants were later interviewed in more depth regarding their interpersonal relationships and their adoption, search, and reunion experiences.