Honest Adoption Language vs. Positive Adoption Language

In the 1960s, forced adoptions led to a surge in adoption practices. This brought to light the problematic language used in adoption-related topics.

As a result, two distinct language styles emerged: positive adoption language and honest adoption language.

This article delves into the significance of language in adoption-related discourse and the key differences between these two language styles.

The Importance of Language in Adoption-Related Discourse

Adoptees, often overlooked as an underrepresented group, may experience significant loss early in life, potentially leading to higher rates of trauma-related symptoms.

The language used in adoption-related discussions significantly shapes how adoptees perceive and navigate their experiences.

Adoption and Microaggressions

Adoption is often viewed in binary terms, with adoptive parents seen as "rescuers" and the adoption process itself deemed inferior to conceiving a child with a partner. This can result in hurtful messages and microaggressions directed at adoptees.

Common examples of microaggressions faced by adoptees include:

• "Biology is best."
• "You must be a bad seed."
• "You should be grateful."
• The notion that adoption is a "win-win" situation for all parties involved.
• Secrecy surrounding their origins or the very fact that they are adopted.
• Dismissal or invalidation of their cultural heritage.

Positive Adoption Language: Origins and Intent

In response to the stigmatizing language previously used in adoption-related discussions, social worker Marietta Spencer introduced "Positive Adoption Language" in 1979, outlined in her article "The Terminology of Adoption."

The Purpose of Positive Adoption Language

Positive adoption language aims to rectify the negative language that was prevalent before its introduction. It seeks to present adoption in a more positive and affirming light.

Honest Adoption Language: A Different Perspective

Some believe that positive adoption language is overly positive, potentially glossing over the painful and emotional aspects of adoption, such as grief and loss.

To address this concern, "honest adoption language" was developed to provide a more accurate portrayal of the adoption process and its impact on all parties involved.

The Goal of Honest Adoption Language

Honest adoption language recognizes that being adopted is a fundamental aspect of an adoptee's identity, with lifelong implications. It acknowledges the complexities and challenges that adoptees may face.

Inclusive Adoption Language: Finding a Middle Ground

Some individuals take issue with both positive and honest adoption language, believing that each has its own shortcomings. As a result, a movement towards more neutral language, known as "inclusive adoption language," has emerged.

Inclusive Adoption Language: Allowing for Individual Choice

Inclusive adoption language permits individuals to select the language choices that resonate with them the most, providing a more personalized and inclusive approach.

Positive Adoption Language vs. Honest Adoption Language: A Comparative Look

The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of positive and honest adoption language:

| Term | Positive Adoption Language | Honest Adoption Language | | Birthparents | Parents | Natural parents | | Adoption | Placed for adoption | Taken for adoption | | Child* | Birth child | Natural child | | Adopted or Fostered | Was adopted | Is adopted | | Adoption Triad/Triangle | Adoption triad/triangle | Adoption transaction | | Reunion | Meeting | Reuniting |

*When referring to the adoptive family

Explaining Key Terms Used in Positive and Honest Adoption Language

To provide a deeper understanding, here are explanations of the terms listed above:

Birthparents vs. Natural Parents

• Birthparents: Refers to the biological parents of an adoptee.
• Natural Parents: Emphasizes the biological connection between the birthparents and the adoptee.

Placement for Adoption vs. Taken for Adoption

• Placed for Adoption: Suggests a voluntary decision to place a child for adoption.
• Taken for Adoption: Acknowledges that adoption can sometimes involve coercion or involuntary separation.

Birth Child vs. Natural Child

• Birth Child: Recognizes the biological connection between the birthparents and the child.
• Natural Child: Implies a natural and inherent connection between the birthparents and the child.

Was Adopted vs. Is Adopted

• Was Adopted: Suggests that adoption is a past event that defines an individual.
• Is Adopted: Acknowledges that adoption is an ongoing and integral part of an individual's identity.

Adoption Triad/Triangle vs. Adoption Transaction

• Adoption Triad/Triangle: Depicts th