Self-Appraisal and Behavioral Adaptation of Adopted Children

Adopted and Nonadopted children were compared on
measures of self-appraisal and behavioral
adaptation. This study provides evidence of an
elevated risk of behavior problems and negative self-
appraisal for adopted children 6-13 years of age.
This negative self-appraisal appears to be linked to
behavioral adjustment, supporting past research that
indicates a relationship between beliefs and
behavior. It may be that problems adjusting to
one''s adoptive status, particularly during childhood
and adolescence, is closely tied to a less positive
view of self. The adoption beliefs of others,
especially peers and significant adults, may be
important in the adopted child''s adjustment, thereby
indicating a clear need for adoptive families and
practitioners to educate society regarding adoption
so as to lessen the stigma attached to this unique
family situation.

Autorentext

Pamela is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Ph.D. in Psychology. She has worked with at-risk children for 20 years and is the Executive Director of a non-profit organization that provides therapeutic foster care. Pamela lives in Virginia with her husband and four children.

Klappentext

Adopted and Nonadopted children were compared on measures of self-appraisal and behavioral adaptation. This study provides evidence of an elevated risk of behavior problems and negative self-appraisal for adopted children 6-13 years of age. This negative self-appraisal appears to be linked to behavioral adjustment, supporting past research that indicates a relationship between beliefs and behavior. It may be that problems adjusting to one's adoptive status, particularly during childhood and adolescence, is closely tied to a less positive view of self. The adoption beliefs of others, especially peers and significant adults, may be important in the adopted child's adjustment, thereby indicating a clear need for adoptive families and practitioners to educate society regarding adoption so as to lessen the stigma attached to this unique family situation.