Most Common Questions and Answers about LGBTQ+ Adoption in Missouri
By Katy Reagan
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’re probably thinking about what you want your child’s family to look like. No two families are the same. Some are created biologically, and others through adoption. Some have the traditional mom and dad, others have two moms or two dads, and some have a single parent. There is no right way for a family to look. Adoption Choices of Missouri is a local, licensed private adoption agency. We help you create the family you want, no matter what that looks like.
1. Can Same-Sex or LGBTQ+ Couples Adopt in Missouri?
Yes, LGBTQ+ adoption is completely legal in Missouri. There is no legal difference between a straight or LGBTQ+ couple adopting.
2. What’s the Difference Between Same-Sex Adoption and LGBTQ+ Adoption?
“Same-Sex” and “LGBTQ+” are terms you will see us using interchangeably. Both mean adoptive parents who identify as LGBTQ+. Same-sex adoption is specifically when a child has two moms or two dads. LGBTQ+ adoption is a term that covers everyone who identifies as LGBTQ+. We use both phrases, so when someone searches for information, our agency comes up no matter what phrase they use.
We want to reach everyone we can who is searching for information on their adoption options. That’s why we also include language like “giving child up for adoption” on our website. We prefer the term “placing a child for adoption” rather than “giving up” because you’re not giving up anything. You are making a selfless choice to give your child the best life possible. However, we still use phrases like “how to give a baby up for adoption” because that is a common search.
3. Does Adoption Choices of Missouri Help with LGBTQ+ Adoptions?
Adoption Choices of Missouri supports you in whatever adoptive family you choose. If an LGBTQ+ adoption is something you want to pursue, we can absolutely help.
Once you contact our adoption agency, you are set up with an adoption counselor. This is the person who will take you through the entire adoption process. You sit down with them to create an adoption plan outlining every choice you make. One of the most important decisions is who will adopt your child. You and your adoption counselor will discuss any requests you have about the adoptive family. These could be based on your values, religious preference, where they live, etc. Your adoption counselor will then present you with adoptive family profiles based on these preferences.
If you specifically want an LGBTQ+ couple, you will only see profiles of LGBTQ+ couples. We present you with options for adoptive families that meet any requirements you have.
4. Does Adoption Choices of Missouri Encourage LBGTQ+ Adoption?
Adoption Choices of Missouri does not value any adoptive parents over others. We will not try to influence your choices one way or the other. We simply want to help you with what you think is best for your child.
Each adoptive parent/family is unique in their own way. Each one is also capable of loving and supporting your child. We perform background checks, training, and home visits to ensure they will provide the best home. We even provide adoptive parents with a home study checklist so they can see what they need. As a Missouri Adoption agency, we want to help you find the best fit.
5. Do LGBTQ+ Adoptive Parents Face Discrimination?
The sad reality is that LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination in our country based on sexuality. They will likely continue to face discrimination even as loving, supportive parents.
6. Will My Child Face Discrimination if They Have LGBTQ+ Parents?
There are people who pass the judgment of parents onto their children. This means it is a possibility your child will face discrimination because of who their parents are. However, because LGBTQ+ parents may also face discrimination, they will know how to guide your child through it. They will teach your child resilience and empathy.
7. Is the Adoption Process Different for LGBTQ+ Couples in Missouri?
The adoption process can be long and complicated for all adoptive parents. However, adoption agencies do not put any added stress on LGBTQ+ couples. They face the same adoption process as straight couples.
8. What is the Difference Between LGBTQ+ Adoptive Parents and Straight Parents?
There is actually very little difference between LGBTQ+ adoptive parents and straight adoptive parents. Both are capable of creating a loving and stable environment for your child. Although LGBTQ+ couples may have two moms or two dads, your child still grows up loved and supported. The only thing that truly separates LGBTQ+ and straight adoptive parents is sexual orientation.
9. Will My Child Be LGBTQ+ if Their Adoptive Parents Are?
There is no research that says any child raised by LGBTQ+ parents will be LGBTQ+. The sexual orientation of parents doesn’t influence or change the sexual orientation of children. Your child is their own person who will grow to like their own things.
10. What are the Benefits of Choosing an LGBTQ+ Couple to Adopt My Child?
Your child may be more comfortable coming out if they are LGBTQ+ because they grew up in an LGBTQ+ household. An accepting environment does not change their sexual orientation, but it may make them accept who they are. Regardless, your child will grow up to be an open-minded and accepting individual. They will be supportive of others who may face discrimination.
Another benefit of choosing LGBTQ+ adoptive parents is the opportunity you’re giving them. LGBTQ+ couples are less likely to be chosen to adopt simply because of their sexual orientation. When you choose an LGBTQ+ couple, you are making their dream possible despite the obstacles they face. Giving people who are unable to have a child the opportunity to be parents is life-changing.
Choosing LGBTQ+ Adoption in Missouri
At Adoption Choices of Missouri, you and your child are our top priority. We work to accommodate every need and wish you have. Choosing LGBTQ+ adoption in Missouri brings together a new family full of love. Adoption is never an easy decision. Our adoption agency hopes to bring you a little peace by placing your child with a family you trust. If you are pregnant and considering adoption or want more information on adoptive families, contact us today.
