Family adaptation of internationally adopted children.

Authors

  • Yolanda Sánchez-Sandoval Universidad de Cádiz
  • Esperanza León Universidad de Sevilla
  • Maite Román Universidad de Sevilla
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6018/analesps.28.2.128711
Keywords: Adoptive families, adaptation, family dynamics, psychological adjustment, behavioral problems

Supporting Agencies

  • Ministerio de Trabajo y Asuntos Sociales
  • y Consejería de Sanidad y Bienestar Social de la Junta de Castilla y León.

Abstract

This paper analyzes the initial adaptation of a group of internationally adopted children and their subsequent adjustment after an average of three years living with their adoptive families. The sample consisted of 258 children adopted internationally by families living in four different regional communities in Spain. Fathers, mothers and children were visited and interviewed in their own homes. Results show very positive evaluations from families about children´s initial adaptation, although most of the children arrived with mild/moderate (19%) or severe (43%) developmental problems (assessment by Battelle scale). Level of development at arrival, initial adjustment, and behavioral problems are related to the dynamics established in these families three years, on average, after adoption. This paper provides data that allow us to emphasize the importance of preparation of families who are going to adopt, but also the importance of the support and follow-up after adoption.

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Author Biographies

Yolanda Sánchez-Sandoval, Universidad de Cádiz

Profesora Titular de Universidad

Dept. Psicología (Universidad de Cádiz)

Esperanza León, Universidad de Sevilla

Profesora Colaboradora

Dpto. Psicología Evolutiva y de la Educación

Universidad de Sevilla

Maite Román, Universidad de Sevilla

Profesora Ayudante Doctora

Dept. Psicología Evolutiva y de la Educación

Universidad de Sevilla

How to Cite
Sánchez-Sandoval, Y., León, E., & Román, M. (2012). Family adaptation of internationally adopted children. Anales de Psicología / Annals of Psychology, 28(2), 558–566. https://doi.org/10.6018/analesps.28.2.128711
Issue
Section
Social and Organizational Psychology