A Qualitative Exploration of the Adult Intercountry Adoptee Experience in Australia. Issue 3 (3rd July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fronek, Patricia; Briggs, Lynne
• Is Part Of: Adoption quarterly. Volume 21:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 161
• Page End: 181
• Publication Date: 2018-07-03
• Subjects: Intercountry adoption -- post-adoption support -- adult adoptees -- unmet need -- Australia; Adoption -- Periodicals; 362.734
• DOI: 10.1080/10926755.2018.1488330
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1092-6755

Abstract

Abstract: Using a post-structuralist narrative approach, this article focuses on insights gained from a qualitative study with 11 Australian intercountry adult adoptees with particular reference to their adoption experiences and post-adoption support needs. From thematic analysis, six interrelated, overlapping themes are reported. These are as follows: connecting to the past, the ambiguous self, the experience of racism, being grateful, safe and unsafe zones, and post-adoption support needs. Key findings relate to the Australian experience of unmet need and support the importance of the adoptee voice in determining appropriate support.