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Date of Award
6-2014
Document Type
Restricted Thesis: Campus only access
Degree Name
Master of Social Work
Department
School of Social Work
First Reader/Committee Chair
Dr. Cory Dennis
Abstract
The purpose of this quantitative research project was to examine what services birthparents identified as needed prior to the adoption and post-adoption, what mental health issues and symptoms they are facing, and what the impact of adoption is on birthparents. Data were gathered through an online quantitative survey that relied on a convenient, purposive, and snowball sampling. The surveys were distributed through various birthparent support group websites, and Facebook pages and groups. Results of the research showed that participants that placed a child for adoption prior to 1990 had less access to services than those participants whose adoption occurred after 1990. However, participants in both year groups valued and wanted therapy/counseling, case management services, and support groups equally. The most common mental health symptoms among participants were depression and generalized anxiety and the majority of participants felt that their adoption experience contributed to their mental health symptoms. With this comprehensive understanding, adoption professionals can tailor pre and post-adoption services to meet the unique mental health needs of birthparents.
Recommended Citation
Tebben, Megan Krystine, "BIRTHPARENTS’ IDENTIFIED NEEDS FOR PRE AND POST ADOPTION SERVICES: IMPACT ON THEIR MENTAL HEALTH" (2014). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 90.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/90