Gibbs, Janine;
(2014)
An exploration of aspects of adoption: education and support experiences of adoptive parents of children adopted from care.
Doctoral thesis (D.Ed.Psy), Institute of Education, University of London.
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Abstract
In recent years there has been increased attention on the process of adoption and a push from the government to see more children adopted from care and at an earlier age. The year 2012- 2013 has seen a record increase in the numbers of children being adopted. However, it is also reported that 3.2% of these adoptions breakdown. This figure for breakdown seem to be closely linked with age at adoption, age at disruption and child to parent violence. Whilst it is positive that more children are being adopted it is also important that these new adoptive families are supported well to prevent breakdown and further experiences of loss and rejection for these children. This study explored the thoughts, feelings and experiences of twelve adoptive parents who have adopted an older (school age) child from care. Individual semi structured interviews were carried out with seven parents and a focus group discussion was attended by another five. These were transcribed and an inductive thematic analysis carried out. Four over-arching themes were found: reconceptualising parenting, the significance of relationships, home/school interactions and necessary resources. The findings from this study highlight the complex interaction between the many systems which the families experienced and the accumulation and impact of vulnerability and protecting factors on their life, parenting capabilities and well-being. Findings from the study have important implications for policy makers and professionals and are discussed as well as areas for further research.
| Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Qualification: | D.Ed.Psy |
| Title: | An exploration of aspects of adoption: education and support experiences of adoptive parents of children adopted from care |
| Open access status: | An open access version is available from UCL Discovery |
| Language: | English |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10209137 |
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