Let's have an open and thoughtful discussion about the complex issues surrounding adoption and reproductive rights. This can be an emotional topic, so I encourage listening with empathy and checking assumptions. To start, I share a bit about what initially drew me to research adoption's social and political dynamics. We then explore common narratives around international adoption and unpack complex truths. Next, we discuss research on women denied abortions and how relinquishment decisions play out. The data reveals some surprising trends. We also examine how government policies like paid leave and childcare access could reduce pressure to choose adoption. Supporting vulnerable families emerges as an important theme. Additionally, we tackle tricky subjects like privilege, race, and the promotion of middle-class ideals in the adoption process. There's much to reflect on. Ultimately, I try providing advice for well-intentioned adoptive parents questioning past decisions. Centering the adoptee's evolving needs is key. There are no easy solutions here, but open and thoughtful dialogue across differences can lead to positive change. I welcome reactions and reflections.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the global impact of international adoption policies on children and families.
Learn about the crucial support available for birth mothers considering adoption.
Explore the often overlooked mental health effects of adoption on adoptees.
Discover the intersection of adoption and reproductive rights, shedding light on important societal issues.
Gain insight into the privilege and bias present in domestic adoption practices, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.
My special guest is Gretchen Sisson
Gretchen Sisson is a research sociologist and author of "The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood." She is affiliated with the University of California, San Francisco's Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health. Her work on adoption relinquishment after abortion denial was cited in the dissent for the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs vs Jackson, Women's Health Organization. Sisson's research has been featured in prominent publications including the Washington Post, Time Magazine, the Nation, NPR, New York Magazine, Vox, and Mother Jones. Her extensive expertise centers on the mental, physical, and financial implications for women navigating pregnancy and the complexities of adoption. This knowledge provides critical insights into the intersection of adoption and reproductive rights and is particularly relevant for prospective adoptive parents considering transracial adoption.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
00:03:49 - The Impact of Adoption Relinquishment
00:11:19 - Cultural Narratives and Adoption
00:13:38 - International Adoption and Child Trafficking
00:14:43 - Changing Landscape of International Adoption
00:15:11 - The Decline of International Adoption
00:17:01 - The Complexities of Transracial Adoption
00:23:08 - Intersection of Adoption and Reproductive Health
00:26:25 - Nuances of Abortion and Adoption
00:29:16 - Reflection on Adoption Choices
00:30:55 - Impact of Social Safety Nets
00:34:29 - Unique American Domestic Adoption System
00:38:31 - Narratives and Privilege in Adoption
00:41:35 - Unpaid Labor and Normative Ideals
00:43:56 - Challenges of Safe Housing for Pregnant Women
00:44:18 - Coercive Tactics of Adoption Agencies
00:46:35 - Advice for Adoptive Parents
00:49:00 - Overcoming Shame and Guilt
00:55:35 - Embracing Differences and Deepening Understanding
00:58:09 - Importance of Good Relationships
00:58:18 - Spreading Joy and Making a Difference
00:58:30 - You Matter
00:58:32 - Empowering Others
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Connect with Gretchen Sisson on Instagram at @gretchensisson for more insights and information on adoption, reproductive health, and societal narratives.
Check out Gretchen Sisson's book The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood for a deeper dive into the complexities of adoption and motherhood in the United States.
Join the Patreon community at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access the exclusive minisode where Gretchen Sisson shares additional insights and information on adoption and reproductive care.
Engage in deeper conversations with friends and family about the complexities of adoption, reproductive health, and societal narratives to gain a broader understanding and perspective.
Follow Lori Adams-Brown on Threads or Instagram at @loriadamsbrown and @aworldof.difference to stay updated on thought-provoking conversations and engage in discussions about making a difference in the world.
Connect with us:
* https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com
* Linkedin
* YouTube
* FaceBook
* Instagram
* Threads
* Patreon
* Bluesky
