Category
Three-Minute Thesis
Description
This study explores the lived experiences of adoptees and the ways in which adoption has impacted them. Grounded in communication theory of identity (CTI), this research examines how adoptees express their identities throughout their lives via communication. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with adoptees over the age of 18 from diverse backgrounds. The findings revealed three key themes from adoptees: identity, education, and opportunity. Participants described identity to be an ongoing and evolving process throughout life, often influenced by biological origins and family dynamics. The theme of education emerged through participants’ desire for educating potential adoptive parents and navigating the adoption process. Opportunity highlighted the perceived advantages that adoption provided for adoptees, including access to relationships and resources. Together, these themes illustrate how communication plays a key role in shaping how adoptees understand their adoption experience. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of adoptee experiences and offers implications for families, adoption professionals, and anyone seeking to better support the adoption community.
Family is Forever: A Qualitative Study of the Impacts of Adoption on Adoptees
Three-Minute Thesis
This study explores the lived experiences of adoptees and the ways in which adoption has impacted them. Grounded in communication theory of identity (CTI), this research examines how adoptees express their identities throughout their lives via communication. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with adoptees over the age of 18 from diverse backgrounds. The findings revealed three key themes from adoptees: identity, education, and opportunity. Participants described identity to be an ongoing and evolving process throughout life, often influenced by biological origins and family dynamics. The theme of education emerged through participants’ desire for educating potential adoptive parents and navigating the adoption process. Opportunity highlighted the perceived advantages that adoption provided for adoptees, including access to relationships and resources. Together, these themes illustrate how communication plays a key role in shaping how adoptees understand their adoption experience. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of adoptee experiences and offers implications for families, adoption professionals, and anyone seeking to better support the adoption community.
