Single Parent Adoptions

From LoveToKnow Baby

Single parent adoptions were once virtually unheard of. Today, however, single people make up as much as 25 percent of adoptive parents for special needs children and approximately five percent of other adoptions.

single adoptions

The success rate of single parent adoptions is steadily growing, which is good news for many singles who once thought their dreams of adopting were out of reach.

Reasons for Single Parent Adoptions

The definition of family has certainly changed throughout the years. Single parents are no longer in the minority. With so many marriages ending in [http:divorce.lovetoknow.com divorce], the amount of single parent homes has risen over the past few decades.

What about those people who have never married, however? Where do they fit in when it comes to single parent adoptions? It stands to reason that just because someone hasn't married doesn't mean that he or she can't be a successful parent.

Whether they've divorced or never married, there are many compelling reasons behind single people adopting.

  • Desire to nurture. The desire to nurture can be overwhelming for a childless couple who wants to adopt. However, that desire can be just as strong in a single man or woman, too.
  • Purpose. Many people have a misconception that singles live the good life, partying and spending money at leisure. While this many be true in some cases, for many singles, the desire to add purpose to their lives drives them to adopt a child who needs someone to love and care for him or her.
  • Infertility. With options such as sperm banks and surrogate mothers, many people wonder why someone would choose to adopt. In some cases, the urge to give a needy child a good home is the answer. But, age and infertility may play a role in the decision as well.
  • Companionship. For some, the yearning for single parenthood is simply a need for companionship and the desire to create a meaningful relationship with someone.
  • Service. With so many children in need of a good home, particularly special needs children and older children, adoption by a single person is simply a way of giving back to the community and the world.

Possible Problems

Although single parent adoptions are much more prevalent today than in the past, the road to adoption is by no means an easy street. There may be obstacles that have to be overcome in single parent adoptions.

  • Agency policies. Even today in our enlightened world, some adoption agencies still prefer to place a child in a two parent home. Your first step in the adoption process is to find an agency that will represent you as a single parent.
  • Support. The adoption process can be stressful for anyone, but it can be especially trying for a single person. Surround yourself with family and friends who support your decision, but don't be surprised if many of your acquaintances don't agree with your choice to adopt.
  • Finances. Sometimes, the swaying factor in your argument for adoption boils down to money. How well can you provide for a child? If you are struggling to get by, you may have a harder time selling your role as a single parent to an adoption agency. Get your finances in order as much as possible before beginning the adoption process!

Where to Begin

You should begin the adoption process much like anyone else would, but be prepared to argue your case as a potential single adoptive parent.

  • Contact several adoption agencies to find out their views on single parents, their fee schedule, their success rate, and their general services.
  • Join an adoption support group in your area or online.
  • Talk to other single adopted parents about the adoption process.
  • Read as much information as you can about adoption.
  • Determine what type of child you want. Be aware that your chances of adopting will increase if you agree to adopt a special needs or older child.

More Information

The following Websites are excellent sources regarding adoption information:

Related Adoption Articles

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Comments

i am currently looking to adopt a infant from el salvador. I am currently single and really am ready to start rasing a child. Please send me information. thank you happy holdiays Brandy Brown

-- Contributed by: brandy

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