The Effects of Race, Religion, and Religiosity on Attitudes towards Transracial Adoption

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of race, religion, and religiosity on attitudes towards transracial adoption (TRA) while controlling for both sociodemographic and ideological factors. Utilizing data from the 2005 Baylor Religion Survey (N = 1721), the hypothesis was tested that Blacks, Protestants, and the more religious, would be less favorable towards TRA than non-Blacks, non-Protestants, and the less religious after controlling for both sociodemographic and ideological factors . The analyses show no relationship between race and attitudes towards TRA. Of the religious groups considered, Protestants are the least supportive of TRA, while religiosity is positively correlated with approval of TRA. A number of sociodemographic and ideological factors are also identified as significant predictors of one’s approval of TRA. Several explanations are offered as to what factors unique to Protestantism are influencing Protestants to be less supportive of TRA. While findings suggest that reported attitudes towards TRA are becoming more favorable among the general public, further research is needed to clarify Protestants’ less favorable attitudes towards interracial family relationships, TRA included.