Adjusting to becoming parents by adoption: a systematic review of qualitative research through thematic synthesis

Abstract

Research highlights the varying experiences individuals have when seeking to become parents for the first time or wishing to extend their existing family through adoption. This review synthesizes qualitative literature on these experiences. Nine papers were analyzed using thematic synthesis, resulting in six analytical themes: (1) the desire to be a parent, (2) powerlessness in the adoption process, (3) pressures, scrutiny, and judgment, (4) expectations vs reality, (5) changing relationships, and (6) the role of support systems. The findings have implications for the way services work with and support adoptive parents across the transition period.