Offering The Skilled, Attentive Representation You Deserve

Is adopting a teen a viable option?

On Behalf of | Oct 20, 2017 | Uncategorized

Adopting a teen might seem difficult, but it’s one of the kindest things an adoptive parent can choose. Teens are often seen as individuals who can’t change or who have been damaged by the foster care system, but that isn’t the case. Sadly, as a result of the unfair stereotypes, teens often go without being adopted and age out of the system. Many teens simply want to find a family who will love and care for them, even if it’s only for a few years until they’re old enough to go to college or live independently.

All types of people can adopt teens, whether they’re first-time parents or seasoned parents. It’s true that those who want to adopt a teen should be resilient; it can sometimes be hard for teens to adjust to new family structures, rules and expectations, but with time, teens typically adjust as well as any other child. If a parent chooses to adopt a teen, he or she should be committed to the child.

Before adopting a child, a home study has to be completed. Potential parents also need to become educated and may be required to take courses before adopting. Social workers aren’t trying to set you up to fail. Remember, they want to see children in the state or adoption agency’s care go to good homes, and they want to make sure you and the child are a good fit for one another.

If you’re ready to expand your family, a teen adoption is one way to do so. Your attorney can help you begin the process, so you can help a child feel loved and cared for.

Source: A Family For Every Child, “Can I adopt a teen?,” accessed Oct. 20, 2017