What is a Missouri Closed Adoption?
It is a common misconception that all adoption journeys look the same. In reality, each birth mother’s adoption journey is unique. One important choice that you will have to make as a birth mother in Missouri is what type of adoption you’d like to have.
At Adoption Choices of Missouri, you will have the option to choose from three types of adoption — open, semi-open and closed. While they each have their own set of benefits, the right one for you will be based on your own needs. If you are considering a closed adoption, your biggest question might be, what is closed adoption?
The Details of a Closed Adoption
A closed adoption means that you and your child’s adoptive family will not have any contact. You will not meet them, and it is likely that you will know very little about each other. All the personal and identifying details about yourself and your child’s adoptive family will be kept private.
Because there is little to no contact between you and your child’s adoptive family, Adoption Choices of Missouri will play a big role in moderating any decisions or agreements between parties. Additionally, it is common for our adoption agency to select your child’s adoptive family during a closed adoption. This ensures your complete privacy. We do take this decision very seriously and will do our best to place your birth child with an adoptive family who matches the criteria laid out in your adoption plan.
The Benefits of a Closed Adoption
The benefits of a closed adoption will differ between each birth mother’s situation and preferences. However, one benefit of a closed adoption can be a strong sense of closure. The finality of a closed adoption can make it simpler for some birth mothers to begin the process of healing and moving forward to the next chapter in their life.
Another benefit of a closed adoption is the privacy that it offers. If you prefer to keep your own information private, this type of adoption will allow you to do so. A closed adoption also means that you will not need to navigate the boundaries of open or semi-open adoptions. For some birth mothers, this can be an important factor in their decision.
The Potential Drawbacks of a Closed Adoption
Just as each type of adoption has its benefits, each will also have its own set of potential drawbacks. In recent years, there has been a larger shift towards open and semi-open adoptions. Why? In part because of the possibilities for communication that arise with the more open types of adoption.
With a closed adoption, you will not be able to know your child as he or she grows older. If they have questions about you, he or she will need to wait until they are eighteen to seek those answers. This can be confusing for adoptees, who often develop questions as they grow older and begin to discover and form their own identities.
How to Choose the Type of Adoption You Want
Just like any big decision, it is best to take the time to think through this choice. If you have people in your life that you trust, talk over your options with them. If you don’t, you can always speak to your adoption caseworker. She will guide you through your available choices and support you as you come to your decision.
Additionally, it is important to listen to yourself. You are the expert when it comes to what is best for your life. Choose the type of adoption that fits your needs and makes the most sense for you and your baby.
Include the Type of Adoption You Want in Your Adoption Plan
After answering the question, what is a closed adoption?, take the time to think about whether it is right for you. Once you’ve made your choice, make sure to include it in your adoption plan. This will ensure that you are prepared for the future.
Remember, Adoption Choices of Missouri will support whatever decision you make. We understand that there is no right type of adoption, just the one that fits your adoption journey best.
Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800
Meet the Author: Molly Doyle is a native San Franciscan, Molly is an experienced educator and a dedicated writer. She holds her multiple subject teaching credential as well as her Masters of Arts in Teaching. When not teaching children or creating new written pieces, Molly can be found kicking around a soccer ball, going for urban hikes or whipping up a fruit pie.
She currently lives in Seattle, her first home outside of California.
