Whether you recently adopted a child or you plan to adopt a child in the near future, it is important to go over many factors, such as your obligations, the ways your life will change with a new family member as well as the benefits of adoption. Moreover, it is also helpful to go over statistics on adoption in order to develop a better understanding of this topic.
In fact, the adoption rate has declined in recent years. However, many people continue to build strong family bonds by welcoming a child into their family through adoption.
Reviewing adoption trends in the U.S.
According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, more than 119,000 children were adopted in the U.S. during 2012. However, this marks a decline in comparison to 2001, when over 140,000 kids were adopted, as well as 2008, when 139,647 adoptions occurred. Moreover, the number of adoptive parents in the U.S. also went down from 2001 to 2012. There a number of potential explanations for this trend, from advances in addressing infertility to financial hardships and cultural changes.
Reviewing the benefits of adoption
The Child Welfare Information Gateway points out that adoption offers various benefits for children who need permanent homes and those who want to grow their family. Children who lack a permanent home often struggle with a number of challenges and a successful adoption can provide them with a much brighter future. From a parent’s perspective, adoption can lead to lifelong relationships with children and allow parents to enjoy the various benefits that come with having children, such as emotional fulfillment and support.
