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Risk and protective factors in children adopted from the former Soviet Union
T M McGuinness1, J P McGuinness, J G Dyer
1University of South Alabama College of Nursing, Community Mental Health Nursing, Springhill Area Campus, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
Summary
Adopted children from the former Soviet Union often faced early adversity, but positive adoptive family environments buffered developmental challenges. Fetal alcohol exposure presents a significant risk for future difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Adoption Studies
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- The former Soviet Union is a primary source of international adoptions in the US.
- Many adopted children experience institutionalization, abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
- Fetal alcohol exposure is a common risk factor among these children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess social, academic, and conduct competencies of 6-9 year olds adopted from the former Soviet Union.
- To evaluate the impact of adoptive family environment and relationships on child competence.
- To identify risks and protective factors in the development of adopted children.
Main Methods:
- Utilized telephone interviews and postal surveys with 105 children in a US community sample.
- Employed standardized measures including the Child Behavior Checklist and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales.
- Assessed family environment using the Family Environment Scale and collected demographic data.
Main Results:
- Children exhibited below-average competence, with many having histories of abuse or neglect.
- Maternal alcohol abuse was prevalent (41%), with a mean birth weight of 2637g.
- Positive adoptive family environments acted as protective buffers against early life adversities.
Conclusions:
- Adopted children's abilities vary widely, from severely challenged to normal development.
- High rates of fetal alcohol exposure indicate potential long-term challenges for adoptive families.
- Adoptive family support is crucial for mitigating risks and fostering competence in internationally adopted children.