Adoption Interview Questions

One of the most exciting and tension filled moments of any adoption is the first meeting with the expectant mother. Many adoptive parents have been waiting for a long time for this particular moment to arrive. Many expectant mothers considering adoption will be just as excited and nervous for this first meeting. Both usually experience some level of fear based around the universally asked question, “What if she doesn’t like me? What should I say?” This is normal. Everyone dislikes being rejected – and therefore when the potential for rejection exists, a certain level of fear is to be expected. In fact, interviews of all kinds are unnerving. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that an adoption interview will rank a bit higher on the scale for “nerves.”

The adoption interview amounts to the first time the birth parents and the adoptive parents will meet. It is an extremely personal moment. It revolves around a very personal subject. It is taking place between people who are in very emotional times in their lives. It’s prudent to
Be gentle and polite. Don’t ask any questions of the birth mother that you would feel awkward addressing yourself. There will be some difficult questions to ask, but take your time and ease into these topics.
3. Try to find topics of interest. You most likely saw paperwork prior to meeting with the birth mother. Was there anything in the paperwork that drew your interest? Did you notice anything that would indicate a shared hobby?
4. Avoid financial discussions. It’s best of finances are handled by your attorney. The discussion of money with a birth mother is the easiest way to drive a wedge in the middle of your attempts to create a relaxed and easygoing relationship.
5. Be honest when you are answering questions. At the same time, don't provide too much information. Be honest and simple in your responses. Unless the expectant mother shows an active interest in a specific area of your life, she probably doesn’t want every last