What Is an Identified Adoption?
Advantages and Disadvantages

In an identified adoption the birth mother selects the family she wishes to adopt her child even before the child is born. She reviews the profiles of several adoptive parents. This is usually arranged between a placement agency and the birth mother, or hopeful parents can put out ads or hire an attorney.

Just think of what Monica and Chandler in the show “Friends” went through when adopting their baby.

This adoption process is more than just a mere formality; there are certain consequences involved. You should be aware of its advantages and disadvantages so that you can avoid complications later on.

The Advantages of the Identified Adoption Process

* If you go with an agency your profile is made available to mothers considering giving their newborns up for adoption as soon as they give birth. The birth mother goes through these profiles to find a couple she feels most comfortable giving her baby up to.

Most birth mothers opt for identified adoption because they feel that they don't have the capacity to care for the child on their own and they would like to find a couple who they feel will be able to care for the child in the way that they themselves would if they had the chance and the capacity to do so.

* As the adoptive parents you will know personally the background of the child. If you are particular about genetics, you will be able to make sure that the birth mother meets your expectations emotionally and physically.

* This process can also be more advantageous to the biological parents as they can personally satisfy themselves that their child will be in good hands.

The Disadvantages of the Identified Adoption Process

* The biological parents know the adopting parents and this could open up to some risks in the adoption process. For example, even though both sets of parents are required to go through counseling before the adoption is final, it does not guarantee that everyone will be cooperative throughout the entire process.

Risk #1. There is always the possibility the birth parents will change their minds and go after you, the adoptive parents. This can be bothersome, especially if they claim back their child.

Risk #2. There is the possibility of harassment. The birth parents may take this opportunity to demand money from you. Putting a price on a child is unimaginable, but it has been known to happen.

Be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this adoption process. This way, you can be sure that you are making the right choice. It is always nice to welcome a child into the family without the worries of unnecessary consequences.

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