Open Adoption Versus Closed Adoption

Knowing the difference between open and closed adoption can be very important.

Many birth mothers and birth fathers are unclear about open and closed adoption and what it means for them and for their child..

In a closed adoption, you as the birth parent(s) and the adopting family do not know each others last names, addresses, social security numbers.  While you still have the option to meet the adopting family before the birth, immediately after the birth, and for as long after placement as you desire, last names and addresses are not shared.

In an open adoption, you as the biological parent(s) and the adopting parents exchange identifying information and are then able, if you so choose, to be in contact with one another directly.

It is that simple. It has nothing to do with whether you get pictures, meet the family, get updates, or see the family on an ongoing basis. You can have a closed adoption and still meet the family and get pictures and updates, but you will not know their last names or how to contact them. Or you can have an open adoption and choose to receive or not receive pictures and updates. So the real issue for you should not be an open or closed adoption, but what type of contact you want with the family and your child.

Ultimately, whether an adoption is closed or open will depend on what you want, what your state allows, and what agency you select. With some agencies, they will not give you a choice but will tell you what you must choose. With other agencies, like Adoption Services, you can choose whether you want an open adoption or closed adoption or some mix of the two. 

Rest assured, that with either an open or a closed adoption, you can probably exchange as much or as little information as you would wish. This can be handled by the agency. Adoption Services has extensive experience with both open and closed adoptions and is here to help you make the best choice for you and your child. We will help you custom-design the arrangements so that they meet with your wishes and desires.

The article Openness in Adoption by the Child Welfare Information Gateway (HHS) is a good resource.

For more information visit the website AdoptionServices.org. page adoption choices and contact Adoption Services or contact Dr Vince Berger.  Dr. Berger is a licensed psychologist who has been helping birth mothers, birth fathers, and adopting families for 40 years.

American Association of Open Adoption Agencies helps families find agencies practicing open adoption. Adoptee's on their mailing list respond to the question, "What do you wish your adoptive parents had known?"

Minnesota/Texas Adoption Research Project provides information on a longitudinal study of openness in adoption since 1985. The most recent wave included a total of 720 individuals: both parents in 190 adoptive families, at least one adopted child in 171 of the families, and 169 birth mothers. This study was the source of much of the research for this fact sheet and the bulletin for professionals.

Child Welfare Information Gateway - Cooperative (Open) Adoption Laws provides laws for each State on open (sometimes called "cooperative") adoption, compiled by the Gateway.

Insight: Open Adoption Resources and Support offers open adoption resources for professionals and support for adoptive and birth parents considering open adoption.