Adoption in the age of reproductive technology

Article


van den Akker, O. 2001. Adoption in the age of reproductive technology. Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology. 19 (2), pp. 147-159. https://doi.org/10.1080/02646830125231
TypeArticle
TitleAdoption in the age of reproductive technology
Authorsvan den Akker, O.
Abstract

The choice of adoption over genetic parenthood was investigated in 105 women retrospectively by questionnaire. Participants were divided into four groups: female/male subfertility; female subfertility; male subfertility; and female/male fertility. Half the sample (59/105) answered the question about the importance of a genetic link. Women who failed to adopt thought a genetic link was important, as did those who were less likely to disclose alternative reproductive conceptions to their child. First thoughts following diagnosis were more focused and actions more centred on adoption in the female/male subfertile group compared to other groups. Communication of the child's origins was least prevalent in the female/male subfertile group, followed by the male subfertile group, although all groups would disclose adoption. The choice of adoption was determined by a number of factors, not all associated with infertility resolution. Although it is unlikely that resolution to infertility can be achieved in any population attempting to overcome infertility, the cognitive dissonance identified in this population is likely to be generalizable to those choosing other options to overcome infertility. Cultural and counselling acknowledgement of postmodern family theory principles is likely to ease cognitive consistency regarding the status of adoptive familyhood, and dispel the importance of reproductive options emphasizing a genetic link.

Research GroupApplied Health Psychology group
PublisherRoutledge
JournalJournal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology
ISSN0264-6838
Publication dates
Print01 May 2001
Publication process dates
Deposited24 Nov 2009
Output statusPublished
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/02646830125231
LanguageEnglish
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