Choosing Adoption

A majority (57%) of respondents agreed with the statement “Sometimes choosing adoption is what it means to be a good mother.” (In a 2010 Harris Interactive Survey commissioned by the National Council for Adoption)

Research clearly shows that adoption is good for children, birthmothers, and families; outcomes for adopted children and birthmothers are generally very positive. Children adopted as infants display few indicators of high-risk behavior such as alcohol use, fighting in school, and trouble with the police. Adopted children also scored higher than did adolescents in the general population on indicators of wellbeing such as school performance, friendships, self-esteem, and social competency.

Most birthmothers who placed their children for adoption report feeling that they made the right decision. In particular, comparing teenagers who make an adoption plan with those who parent indicates that those who chose adoption are more likely to finish school, obtain a higher level of education, and attain better employment than their parenting peers. They are also less likely to receive public assistance or experience another pregnancy before they are married.


Both current research and public opinion support the fact that adoption can be a positive option for women, and yet providing information to women making pregnancy decisions often proves a challenge. If more women were fully informed and educated about the option of adoption and its positive outcomes for both birthparents and children, they might choose to make an adoption plan. Women facing unintended pregnancies should be provided with timely, accurate, non-coercive information about adoption.

You may find it helpful to read the chapters “Should she make an adoption plan?” and “Dedication Service” in our book “How To Survive Your Teen’s Pregnancy“.

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