What Type of Adoption is Best for Us? A Guide for Exploring Open, Closed, and Semi-Open Adoption Options

Choosing the type of adoption that feels right for your family is a deeply personal decision. There is no single “right” answer, only what aligns best with your values, comfort level, and long-term vision for parenting through adoption.

This questionnaire is designed to help prospective adoptive parents reflect on their thoughts and feelings around open, semi-open, and closed adoption. It is not a test or evaluation, but a guided tool designed to encourage honest discussion and self-reflection as you progress through the adoption process.

At Adoption Advocates of Georgia, often trusted by families as the best adoption agency in Georgia, we believe informed families feel more confident and prepared. Many families find it helpful to complete this questionnaire before beginning a home study application or during early conversations with an adoption professional.

How to Use This Questionnaire

• Read each question carefully and answer honestly
  
  
• There are no right or wrong answers
  
  
• Some questions may raise new thoughts—take your time
  
  
• Consider discussing your responses together if you are adopting as a couple
  
  
• Your answers can change over time, and that’s okay
  
  

General Reflection Questions

☐ What draws us to adoption at this point in our lives?
☐ What hopes do we have for our future child?
☐ What concerns or fears do we have about adoption?
☐ How do we typically handle uncertainty or change?
☐ How important is ongoing communication and information sharing to us?

Questions About Open Adoption

(Open adoption typically includes some level of direct contact between adoptive families and birth parents.)

☐ How do we feel about having ongoing contact with a child’s birth parents?
☐ Are we comfortable with visits, phone calls, or shared updates?
☐ How would we explain an open adoption relationship to our child?
☐ Do we feel secure in our role as parents if birth parents are involved?
☐ Are we open to adjusting communication over time as everyone’s needs change?

Questions About Semi-Open Adoption

(Semi-open adoption usually includes indirect communication through an agency or agreed-upon updates.)

☐ Does limited, structured contact feel more comfortable for us?
☐ Would we be open to sharing photos or letters through an agency?

☐ Do we like the idea of flexibility without direct contact?
☐ How important is it for us to receive background updates over time?
☐ Would we feel comfortable if the level of openness changed in the future?

Questions About Closed Adoption

(Closed adoption typically involves no ongoing contact or identifying information shared.)

☐ Do we prefer clear boundaries and privacy?
☐ How do we feel about not having ongoing information about birth parents?
☐ Are we prepared to answer our child’s questions with limited details?
☐ How would we handle it if our child expresses curiosity about their birth family later in life?
☐ Does the idea of a closed adoption feel emotionally safer for us right now?

Thinking About Your Child’s Perspective

☐ How do we plan to talk with our child about adoption?
☐ What information do we believe is important for a child to have as they grow?
☐ How will we support our child if they have questions or mixed feelings?
☐ Are we open to seeking guidance or counseling if challenges arise?

Support and Communication

☐ Do we have a strong support system (family, friends, community)?
☐ Are we comfortable asking for help or advice when needed?
☐ How do we handle differences of opinion as a couple?
☐ Are we willing to continue learning as adoption dynamics evolve?

Final Reflection

☐ Which type of adoption feels most aligned with our values right now?
☐ What questions do we still have about adoption options?
☐ Are there areas where we may need more education or support?
☐ Would we like to discuss these responses with an adoption professional?

Remember, many families find that their comfort level grows with education and support. What feels uncertain today may feel very different after learning more or speaking with experienced professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to choose an adoption type before starting the process?
No. Many families explore their options during the education and the home study process. Flexibility is common and encouraged.

Can our preferences change over time?
Yes. Adoption is a journey, and preferences often evolve as families gain experience, information, and confidence.