Home » News » Study Shows Children Benefit from Openness in Adoptions Study Shows Children Benefit from Openness in Adoptions A new study from the University of Missouri has shown that in adoption, children and parents can both benefits from open communication. These findings, like many others, support the belief that adopted children have the best outcomes when adoptive parents and birth parents work together to communicate about adoption. By studying the narratives of adoptive parents, the researchers also noted that the relationship between birth parents and adoptive parents has a direct effect on the relationship between birth parents and children. “These themes are all about storytelling,” says MU Assistant Professor of Communication Haley Horstman, “but with the process, we saw that the adoptive parents are the gatekeepers to the relationship with the birth parent.” For adoptive families, this means that a healthy relationship with a birth mother can nurture a positive outlook on adoption for the child. The study was accepted for publication in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, and additional research will be presented at the National Communication Association Conference in November. Sources: University of Missouri EurekAlert! Study Shows Children Benefit from Openness in Adoptions Five Reasons to Take Advantage of Adoption Counseling ServicesWherever you are in your adoption journey, if you are experiencing emotional difficulties, know that you don’t have to go it alone. You are entitled to adoption counseling services, which can be beneficial in a number of ways. Here are just a few benefits of working with an adoption counselor.Learn More Five Ways to Support a Pregnant Friend Considering AdoptionIt can be overwhelming to receive such big news from someone close to you, and you may not know how to react or how...Learn MoreDo Orphanages Still Exist?When many people think of adoption, they think of traditional orphanages — or the negative stereotype of traditional orphanages, involving underfed and mistreated orphans...Learn MoreFive Signs You Are Ready to Start the Adoption ProcessAdoption can be an exciting and rewarding experience — but it’s also a big commitment that requires plenty of time, energy and patience. How...Learn MoreSix Ways to Educate Others About AdoptionIf you have experienced the joy of adoption firsthand, you can help spread adoption awareness. Simply sharing your story with others can help them...Learn MoreCoping with an Adoption DisruptionYour dreams of parenthood are finally within reach — until you get the devastating news that your baby’s prospective birth mother has changed her...Learn MoreFour Ways to Handle the Holidays After PlacementThe holidays are a time of good cheer and celebration — family and friends come together in the spirit of the season to make...Learn MoreFour New Year’s Resolutions for Adoptive ParentsAs you begin the new year, consider setting adoption goals and making adoption an even bigger priority in your life.Learn More Get Free Info