Family Communication Perspectives on Adoptive Family Dynamics: Empirical and Theoretical Considerations

Key themes include the importance of Adoption Communication Openness (ACO), which fosters free-flowing dialogue and relational cohesion. Studies show that open communication supports adoptee adjustment, counters stigma, and aids in managing challenges like missing genetic history. The research also highlights adoptive identity formation, revealing the complexities adoptees face due to stigma, racial bias, and uncertainty about their origins. Translational opportunities abound, including pre-adoption training, counseling, and support groups to enhance family resilience. This book also underscores the need for further research, especially on transracial adoption, birth family experiences, and adoptee perspectives. By prioritizing open dialogue and evidence-based interventions, this body of work provides actionable insights to support adoptive families and advance adoption scholarship.

This book is essential reading for adoption professionals, family therapists, social workers, and researchers in family studies. The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue in Journal of Family Communication.