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Identity conflicts in adoptees.
Arthur D Sorosky1, Annette Baran2, Reuben Pannor2
1Department of Psychiatry.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|January 1, 1975
Summary
Adoptees are more prone to identity issues during late adolescence and young adulthood. This vulnerability is heightened following reunions with birth parents, impacting self-discovery.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Adoption and reunion processes can significantly influence an individual's psychological development.
- Identity formation is a critical developmental task during adolescence and young adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychological impact of birth parent reunions on adoptees.
- To identify potential vulnerabilities in identity development among adoptees.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
- Qualitative data were gathered through interviews with numerous adoptees who had reunited with their birth parents.
Main Results:
- Adoptees are at a higher risk for identity problems compared to the general population.
- Reunions with birth parents appear to be a significant factor in the manifestation of these identity issues.
Conclusions:
- Adoptees face unique challenges in identity development, particularly in later adolescent and young adult stages.
- The experience of reuniting with birth parents warrants further attention in understanding adoptee identity formation and mental well-being.