Adoption Rate
51,000 children were adopted through the child welfare system in 2000; more than twice as many as in 1996.
Through a literature review, examination of case studies, and feedback from child welfare professionals and adoptive parents, this white paper explores the need for more mental health services that address the unique needs of children in the child welfare system and their adoptive families.
51,000 children were adopted through the child welfare system in 2000; more than twice as many as in 1996.
In 2000, adopted children were, on average, 6.9 years old and had been in foster care for over 3 years by the time their adoption was finalized.
88% of kids adopted in 2000 qualified for a special needs subsidy based on their age, minority status, membership in a sibling group, or medical, psychiatric or emotional health issue(s).
A survey of adoptive parents in Illinois indicated that parents saw many positive changes in their child as a result of participating in a support group for adopted children.
The Systems of Care model, which recognizes a family's changing role over time, is showing promising results through federal grant-funded initiatives across the country.
Not all children require mental health services after they have been adopted, but many do. They particularly do if they were in the child welfare system. Even trained mental health professionals do not understand the unique needs and challenges children and families of adoption face. Developing partnerships that involve adoptive parents at all levels, increasing funding for promising programs and services, and advocating for legislative reforms can help ensure these children and families receive the support they need.
