Placing a Baby Up for Adoption in Kansas Today vs. in the Past
By Alexandra Butcher
Adoption seems like such a modern process in our current day and age. But adoption has been around for thousands of years and it has undergone many changes just like us human beings. In the past, birth mothers were often shamed and made to be embarrassed of their decision to place their baby up for adoption; however, in recent years, there has been a rise in positivity and empowerment surrounding adoption.
Adoption Choices of Kansas is an adoption agency that prioritizes birth mothers and their babies in the adoption process and supports the empowerment of birth mothers. In modern adoption, birth mothers are celebrated and admired for their brave choice and are paired with professionals who work closely with them to create a unique adoption plan. If you are considering adoption for your baby, read on to learn more about the differences between past and present adoption and why you should rest easy knowing you are valued in this process.
Differences in a Modern Kansas Adoption
The adoption process involves many different factors, including creating an adoption plan, finding adoptive families, providing emotional support for mothers, etc. However, many of these factors weren’t taken into account until recent decades. Here are three key differences between past adoption and modern adoptions:
1. Less Shame and Stigmas Surrounding Birth Mothers
The adoption process used to bring shame to many mothers by capitalizing on the idea that they were “giving” a child up for adoption and insinuating that they didn’t really love them. In today’s world, we understand that this is a misconception and that birth mothers love their child as much as any other mother. Sometimes, people are just not ready to raise a child, and it is completely okay to acknowledge this and find a family who can raise your baby the way you want.
In today’s day and age, we uplift birth mothers who choose to place their child up for adoption. It is a brave and admirable decision, and there is no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed for doing what you think is best for your child. You are giving them a great opportunity, don’t forget that.
2. More Autonomy for Birth Mothers Within the Adoption Process
Because adoption used to be such a shameful process, birth mothers weren’t given many rights and choices in the process. The baby would be given to whichever family was deemed fit by those in charge of the adoption process – giving birth mothers no say in the process.
However, adoption in our day and age rejects this notion and gives birth mothers full control over where their child is placed and who raises them. As the saying goes, “mother knows best.” Your child will go into a safe and happy home (check out our home study checklist if you want to know more about our requirements for adoptive families) chosen by you!
3. Opportunities for Communications Between Birth Mothers and Adoptive Families
In the past, adoptions were seen as a one-and-done transaction. Birth mothers would have no communication with their children and would be left to wonder what would become of them. For some mothers, this is what they want. However, modern adoption has made it possible for birth mothers to have the option and opportunity to remain in contact with their child and their adoptive family.
Modern adoption gives birth mothers the option to choose a closed, open, or semi-open adoption. Whichever option you choose, it’s important to understand that you have a say in the level of contact you will have with your future child and placing them up for adoption does not automatically remove you from their lives. You have the opportunity to remain in their lives – your level of involvement is up to you!
Seeking Out a Modern Adoption in Kansas
Adoption Choices of Kansas knows that choosing adoption can be a daunting decision. We acknowledge that there are so many misconceptions and harmful stereotypes out there that deter birth mothers from making the brave decision to place their baby up for adoption. But you should know that these stereotypes and harmful stigmas stem from antiquated views on pregnancy, adoption, and womanhood. These values and thoughts don’t reflect modern beliefs and certainly don’t align with the mission of our adoption agency in Kansas.
Our agency works closely with birth mothers to involve them in the adoption process and guarantees full transparency. If you are looking for adoption services in Wichita or any other part of Kansas, Adoption Choices of Kansas is here to provide you with the best resources every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you are considering giving a child up for adoption and are ready to begin your journey into modern adoption in Kansas!
