If you are considering adoption, one of the biggest decisions you will make is whether to pursue an open, semi-open or closed adoption. While open adoptions are increasingly common, closed adoptions may offer some advantages as well.
There are a few reasons why closed adoption could be a good fit for your family.
1. Protecting your privacy and boundaries
In a closed adoption, neither the adoptive nor biological parents learn identifying details about each other. This allows both parties to move forward with their lives separately and set clear boundaries. If limiting involvement between the two families is important to you, you might prefer a closed adoption.
2. Forming your own family identity
With a closed adoption, your immediate family unit is free to bond and form your own identity, traditions and relationships. Without the external involvement of a child’s biological relatives, you will have space to become a family on your own terms. Many parents feel this facilitates attachment.
3. Avoiding confusion for the child
Some child development experts believe having contact with a child’s biological family can introduce confusion about their identity, especially when they are young. Closed adoptions eliminate this complication and allow adoptive parents to be the primary family structure. Kids may form a stronger sense of belonging.
Every adoption is unique and deeply personal. The level of communication you have with the birth family directly affects the path ahead as you raise the child. Consider all of the factors as you determine the best fit for your family and child.