Adoption should not be a permanent solution to a temporary crisis

By Leah Lusk, content specialist

Over the past several weeks, we’ve explored several of the reasons someone might consider placing a child for adoption: financial pressure, lack of support, not feeling ready to parent, believing a child would have a “better” life elsewhere, and being pressured while vulnerable.

While each situation is unique, many of the factors that lead someone to consider adoption are temporary, situational, and potentially solvable with the right support. Poverty, housing instability, limited childcare options, lack of family help, or even feelings of unreadiness can shift — sometimes quickly — when resources, connection, and encouragement are available.

But adoption is not temporary. It’s a lifelong separation with profound emotional, relational, and identity impacts for the child and their family of origin. When a short-term crisis leads to a permanent decision, there’s no way to reverse that choice if circumstances improve later.

At OA&FS, we strive to provide true informed choice for the people we work with, which includes exploring the resources and supports that could help them parent if they want to do so. When people do choose adoption, we want to ensure they have had the opportunity to make their decision with access to accurate information and unbiased support.

When we respond to crisis with compassion, tangible help, and respect for a person’s right to decide for themselves, we create space for true choice. Adoption should not be the default solution to hardship.

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