'Sunshine and shadows': A heuristic exploration of adoptive parenthood
Authors
Constantine, AnnaAdvisors
Mintz, RitaPublication Date
2012-11
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Show full item recordAbstract
Adoption offers the chance for new beginnings both for the child and the adoptive parent, but it also contains the potential for disappointment and despair. The aim of this qualitative heuristic research study was to provide insight into the lived experience of adoptive parenthood and the impact adoptive children can have on their families. The experience of the researcher is found within the study, integrating her own experience with the personal accounts of the six participants. Data was collected using audio recorded semi-structured interviews. The data was transcribed and analysed using an inductive approach. Various themes emerged from the analysis process and the outcomes are in line with much of the literature on adoption and adoptive parenting. All six participants experienced difficulties; some encountered more profound issues than others. There were also many positive aspects found within the study including the participants’ experience of satisfaction, happiness, pride and joy. Many of the themes and sub themes that emerged from the research are worthy of further research. Post adoption support however was of particular significance for the majority of the participants, suggesting further research in this area would be helpful.Publisher
University of ChesterType
Thesis or dissertationLanguage
enCollections
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