Open or Closed Adoption?

When considering placing a baby for adoption, one of the most common concerns that expectant mothers have is whether they should choose to have an open or closed adoption. Both situations have their own benefits and drawbacks, therefore it’s crucial to take the time to consider your options. 

Open or Closed Adoption: Key Differences

There are several key differences between an open and closed adoption that are worth considering before you make your choice. With an open adoption there is some level of communication between the birth family and adoptive family with an open adoption. Some examples of this communication include the following:

• Writing and sending letters
• Talking on the phone
• Exchanging photos
• Sending emails
• Periodic visits

While there are some similarities between all open adoptions, no two situations are exactly alike. The level of communication that your child has with you depends entirely on the comfort levels of everyone in the adoption triad. 

Closed adoption, on the other hand, is an arrangement in which no contact takes place between the adoptive family and birth family. The two parties won’t share any identifying information. However, typically expectant mothers do share some basic, non-identifying information about their family and child with the adoptive family. This allows the adoptive family to learn more about your child and background, so that they can plan for any medical/behavioral situation that may arise.

In closed adoptions, all court records are sealed. This means that no one can access those records. The purpose of doing this is to protect your right to privacy. If you would like your child to be able to find you after they reach age 18, there is the Florida Adoption Reunion Registry. Additionally, you can sign a document stating that the adoption entity can provide that information to the adoptee after they reach age 18.

Why Do Some Women Choose Closed Adoption? 

When debating open or closed adoption, one of the most commonly cited advantages of a closed adoption is a greater sense of privacy. Many expectant mothers also feel vulnerable when faced with the reality of placing a child for adoption. Therefore, keeping their adoption closed allows them to cope with the process in a different way.

In addition, choosing an open adoption often paves the way for questions that you might not feel comfortable answering. If you’re worried about prying from curious family members or friends, open adoption may not be the best choice for you. A closed adoption gives you the opportunity to set boundaries that grant you more privacy and peace of mind.

Why Do Some Women Choose Semi-Open or Open Adoption? 

If you want to watch your child grow, semi-open or open adoption is the right choice for you. This arrangement allows you to receive pictures and letters of your child as he/she grows up. Many birth mothers say that these updates provide a sense of peace, knowing that your child is loved and cared for as you watch him/her grow. Additionally, the child might have questions about you as he/she grows up. If you choose to have a semi-open or open adoption, the adoptive parents will have met you and gotten to know you. Therefore, they can tell the child about you and your love for him/her. The best part about open/semi-open adoption is that your child will know that this was a decision made from love.

The Decision is Yours To make 

When deciding between open and closed adoption, it’s important to remember that the decision is yours to make. No one can make this choice for you. Do your research well ahead of time and/or talk to a counselor. You can also feel free to talk to The Law Offices of Berkowitz & White PLLC. We’d be happy to go over the pros and cons of both open or closed adoption. We are here for you 24/7, every single day of the year.

Pregnant and thinking about adoption? Call or Text us Today at (561) 841-3065 or (850) 610-4166 

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