THE ADOPTION HOME STUDY - FACTS AND FEARS
Once you decide on adoption, the laws of all 50 states require that you undergo a “home study.” Regardless of whether you choose domestic or international, agency, attorney or independent. The very words strike fear into the hearts of all, who may question why they have to undergo such rigorous scrutiny when biological parents do not.
There is no one format for a home study; the person providing it is usually a licensed social worker. Each agency, or attorney, might have different needs in terms of their application packet. However, certain documents are standard. These include autobiographies of all household members, health statements, income statements, letters of reference, child abuse and criminal clearances (including fingerprints), and interviews. The process can take several months, depending on social worker case load, and time it takes for paperwork to clear.
In general, the following information is included:
In additon, you may be asked to provide copies of various documents for an international adoption; these may have to be notarized, and a “dossier” completed to meet both INS regulations, as well as those of the country you choose to adopt from.
The autobiography can be intimidating to write, however, it’s essential for everyone involved to understand the waiting parent, and the reasons for wanting to adopt. Each person will bring a unique perspective to the table, and no two statements will be alike. Basically, this is your life, so it’s important to be open, honest, and to really explore yourself. Your social worker might give you guidelines, such as writing about your childhood, your relationship with your spouse (if applicable), your attemps at pregnancy (if applicable), why you want to adopt.