Top 5 Common Misconceptions about Adoption in New York
By Kaitlyn Chrisemer
Adoption is far more common and accepted now than many years ago. However, misconceptions and false assumptions surrounding adoption still need to be addressed. At Adoption Choices of New York, we want to ensure you have the necessary information. Our NYC adoption agencies can help you understand the difference between common misconceptions about adoption and reality.
Common Misconceptions about Adoption
Myth 1: Placing my Baby for Adoption Means, You’re Giving up on Them
The first main misconception about adoption is that putting a baby up for adoption is giving up on them. Many people who aren’t informed about adoption think that adopting out a baby is the same as giving up on them. They believe the birth mother doesn’t love or want the child, so they’re giving them away. Others believe that birth mothers don’t want to raise a child, so they give it up for adoption.
Our counselors at our NYC adoption agencies will help you understand that adoption is not giving up. Placing a child for adoption takes a unique type of strength that not everyone has. There are many reasons a birth mother might decide to place their child for adoption. Most birth mothers believe adoption is the best decision for them and the child. They self-reflect and feel they aren’t ready or able to raise a child. Therefore, the baby would be able to have a better life with a different family to love and care for them.
Myth 2: You Have to Make Decisions as soon as You Find out You’re Pregnant
Many women who find themselves unexpectedly pregnant panic immediately. This is a natural reaction but unnecessary. Many people think that decisions and adoption plans must be made as soon as possible. People think that there is a time limit to how long they have to decide what path to take.
In reality, you can begin your adoption journey at any point in pregnancy, even as late as at the hospital. Although most adoption plans are made early in pregnancy, we can help you create a plan at any point in the process. As a result, you should never feel rushed or like it’s too late to start your adoption process.
Myth 3: Birth Mothers who Place their Children for Adoption are Teenagers
People might think that birth mothers who place their children for adoption are teen moms. This is largely due to the stigma surrounding adoption and the lack of widespread information on adoption. A lot of people think that adoption is only for teenagers experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.
However, anyone can place their baby for adoption. Adoption is an option for you no matter how old you are if you’re pregnant unexpectedly.
Myth 4: The Best Type of Adoption is Closed Adoption
Many people either only know of closed adoption or think it is the best type of adoption in every case. People think an open adoption will confuse the child and impact them emotionally. Some think that from knowing their birth parents, the child will not understand the role of the adoptive family. Others think the child will feel rejected by the birth parents if they know them as they grow.
However, open adoption is more common and healthy than that. Open adoption can offer the child an extended support network through their relationship with the birth family. Open adoption can also help the child understand and gain a sense of identity. Sometimes adopted children struggle with defining themselves and their place in the world. Having a relationship with their birth parents can help deter some of these feelings.
Myth 5: Adoption is Expensive
Many women understand that pregnancy and raising a child are expensive. Some women feel that they won’t be able to financially support their baby when unexpectedly pregnant. However, many people think that adoption is also expensive.
When you choose to work with Adoption Choices of New York, we can help support you financially. We can lower the cost of pregnancy, helping you make ends meet for your necessities. Don’t dismiss adoption as a path for you because you’re concerned about the cost.
Choosing Adoption with Adoption Choices of New York
We have adoption agencies in Albany, NYC, Rochester, and Buffalo. No matter where in New York you are, we can offer your help with your adoption process. If you are a birth mother considering adoption or a prospective adoptive family, contact us. We are happy to help meet your needs as you go through this difficult time. Our adoption agencies are always here for you!
Adoption Choices of New York is available to assist with your adoption plan. Call us, text us, or email us; we are here for you! Contact Us 24/7: 800-505-8592 (Phone) | 518-478-8420 | Click to Email
