How Does an Adoption Affect Young Children?

Adoption affects young children in various ways.

Young, adopted children may face difficulties different than those faced by other children. Adopted babies and toddlers will likely have developmental delays and conflicting emotions. When adopted, some young children find it difficult to cope with their feelings and have trouble attaching to their adoptive parents.

Development

In some cases adopted children are behind physically, emotionally and cognitively. A toddler may lack the physical abilities of other children the same age. An adoptive parent will need to take extra time to support the developmental needs of the child.

Attachment

Attachment issues are common in young, adopted children. Young children may have possibly experienced neglect in their previous home. Other children feel distant and confused about their new family and the reason behind the change. Attachment difficulties result in emotional difficulties, social interaction issues, control issues and self-destructive behavior.

Grief

Young children may grieve their past lives and birth parents as they adjust to changes. Children often experience trouble expressing such complex feelings and instead act out in other ways. Adopted children may act out by displaying poor eating habits, sleep issues or aggressiveness to cope with grief.

References

• Adoption Services: Adoption and Child Development
• Families: How Common Are Attachment Disorders with Adopted Children?
• Adoption: Grief and Loss Issues for Adopted Children