Review of Research on Black Families who Formally Adopted Black Children

Abstract

Even though children can flourish in formal (legal) adoptions, unique issues may challenge the functioning of their adoptive families. Culturally appropriate services should be designed to address specific needs of adopted children and their families. Considering the importance of research in informing policies and practices relevant to these services, little research is focused on the experiences of Black families who adopt Black children. Therefore, a literature review was conducted to learn of past and current research and to suggest future directions of research that can be useful in helping children and their families. Although research involved a variety of topics, more comprehensive research is recommended.