I work with families that are challenged by the severe behavioral problems of their adopted teenagers. Many times these teens are also diagnosed with an attachment disorder. These families can feel very alone in their struggles as quite often well meaning friends and family members tell them they simply need to be more firm with their children in regards to discipline. In our society we are lead to believe that when a family adopts a child and provides them with love, discipline and stability that they will thrive. That is not always the case.

As an adoptee I have several issues with this “study”. First it is not statistically valid, the control groups are not the same. Secondly, as a society we tend to blame any problems that an adopted child has on the fact that they are adopted. That is pure bunk! When I was in middle school in the 70’s my guidance counselor told me I had ppsychological problems because I had no need to find my biological parents! Maybe the problem is not the adoptee, but the way society still looks at adoption. Notice how many times when a child is in trouble, the media notes that he or she was the “adopted” child of…. Never the child of…..

If people would just remember that “adopted” children are no different that “biological” children, and stopped blaming adopted children if they have any problems, our society would be a better place.

I have two children, one who grew under my heart, and one in it. I just can never remember which one. I can share that both of my children know that I am their mother, in spite of ignorance like this study.

what Su said. This study is ridiculous!!!!!!!!!!

I was adopted at birth and from what I’ve seen and personally experienced, those are probably two things I’ve never seen in another adoptee. I know and have known many others that were also adopted throughout my life and one thing that I have seen consistently is a very high rate of alcoholism and drug abuse. One of the main reasons I know so many other adoptees is that I’ve met them throughout the years at AA meetings. I recall one evening in particular as a group of about 15 of us had gone to a restaurant after a meeting and someone mentioned in passing that they were adopted. Aat least 8 of the group acknowledged also being adopted. 50% of the group present. And through some listening and subtle questioning over time, I’ve confirmed, at least to myself, that there a very high percentage of AA members/attendees who are adopted. Definitely a lot higher statistically then in the general population as a whole. I have my own theories as to why this is and as for me, it had nothing to do with environment. I’m laying odds that at least one of my birth parents had issues with it also. Just some other food for thought…