Intercountry adoption : the psychological and sociological implications

Abstract

Given that out of the 612 adoptions carried out by Maltese couples between 1987 and 1999, 453 involved children from foreign countries, adoption in Malta has become almost synonymous with intercountry (Department of Family Welfare, Adoption Unit, January 2000). Although as a group most adopted children, including children adopted from a foreign country, adjust well, faring better than those reared in institutional settings, in long-term foster care or in neglectful or abusive homes, they are also at greater risk than their nonadopted peers for a variety of academic and psychological problems (Brodzinsky, Smith, & Brodzinsky, 1998). Children who had to face adverse early conditions, as most intercountry adoptees do, are even more likely to experience later problems (Brodzinsky, 1993). This study delves into the lives of 8 intercountry adoptees aged 10 years and over, looking closely at how they are faring within their adoptive families and country, also examining whether they foster hopes of one day tracing any of their biological relatives. The study finally suggests support programmes and tracing mechanisms necessary within this area of social work practice.