Identity, Emotions and Cultural Context in Family Health History
Family health history is often discussed in medical and other clinical settings as a practical tool for understanding disease risk. But for adopted children, these conversations can also intersect with complex feelings surrounding identity, belonging, grief and cultural understanding. Helping your child take ownership of their health and identity and establish healthy boundaries with others […]
How Family Health History Contributes Biologically to Adopted Children’s Mental Health Risk
The mental health of adopted children has long been an area of interest in research and clinical practice, dating back decades into the history of adoption in the Western world. Understanding how family history plays a role in mental health can be empowering but also filled with uncertainty and anxiety. This article will focus on […]
Clinical vs. Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing: Education and Ethical Awareness
The rising popularity and availability of DNA and genetic testing to the general public has opened new pathways for adopted persons to learn about their health and genetic ancestry. Genetic testing has also created new avenues for search and reunion with biological families. This article will focus on informing adoptive families on how to distinguish […]
Considerations for Accessing Adoption-Related Medical Records
Understanding what documents are available and accessible to your adopted child can be a daunting task due to the high variance in U.S. state policies and international policies. Explore the Cradle’s guide to challenges that adoptive families and adopted individuals can face when attempting to gain access to or recover documents related to medical history. […]
How Can You Advocate for Your Child in a Medical Setting?
Navigating medical environments can be challenging for adoptive families. This article explores why adopted children may face challenges in medical settings and how adoptive parents can advocate for the unique healthcare needs of their children and work with providers to bridge the information gap. This article is the first installment in an educational series aiming […]
