Full Description
First published in 1966, Parents Children and Adoption emerged during a time when systematic training materials for adoption professionals were urgently needed. This comprehensive book was specifically designed for social workers and professionals directly involved in adoption practice during the 1960s.
The work expertly synthesizes essential medical, genetic, and legal information while examining both theoretical frameworks and practical casework techniques of the period. Organized into four sections, it covers: working with unmarried mothers, including brief guidance on casework with unmarried fathers; understanding the heredity versus environment debate in child development; locating and preparing adoptive homes; and managing post-placement supervision alongside legal processes.
Beyond procedural guidance, the book addresses the emotional impact of separation on all parties involved in adoption. Reflecting the social attitudes and professional practices of 1960s adoption work, this historical lens allows contemporary readers to understand how adoption practices have transformed over time while addressing the complex emotional and psychological aspects of the adoption process for children, birth parents, and adoptive families.
Contents
Foreword Introduction Part 1: The Natural Parents 1. Facts and Theories about Unmarried Mothers 2. Casework with the Unmarried Mother and her Parents 3. The Decision about the Baby 4. The Practical Use of Casework Resources 5. The Unmarried Father Part 2: Heredity and Environment 6. Heredity 7. What will the Child be Like? 8. Environment 9. Adoptability Part 3: The Creation of New Families 10. The Purpose of Home-Finding 11. The Practice of Home-Finding 12. Planning for Placement 13. Giving Background Information 14. The Actual Placement Part 4: Statutory and Legal Requirements 15. Supervision of the Adoptive Family 16. The Work of the Guardian ad litem
