Understanding the Adoption Triad

The adoption triad, usually depicted by a triangle interwoven with a heart, represents the relationship that adoptee has with their birth mother and their adoptive family. The placing of the points on the triangle is very significant. The adoptee is placed on the top to illustrate both the birth mother and the adoptive family’s goal to support the child, and the triangle is used to represent the equal distance between all three points. 

Down below, we will go into a bit more detail about what each term really means and how that connects back to the adoption process.

The Adoptee

Situated at the top of the triangle, the adoptee is the reason for the existence of the triad in the first place. Supported by you, as the birth mother and the adoptive family, your child will grow with support from both parties, each playing a very different role. 

The adoption process can be smooth and painless, but it rarely happens without a few speed bumps along the way. Making sure to be open and honest with your child will help them come to terms with the process, as well as lead to further and more meaningful conversations in the future. Supporting him or her throughout their life, even if that means reaching out to you, will help them grow and foster the caring relationship necessary for any family.

The Birth Mother

Perhaps the most important aspect of the triangle, for, without you, the birth mother, there would be no adoption triad. While there are those who view birth mothers in a negative light for placing a child for adoption, it is important to recognize the extreme sacrifice you have had to make. Regardless of the circumstances, it is never easy to make the decision to choose adoption, and that it is a choice that stays with you for the rest of their lives. 

Even if the birth mother chooses a closed adoption, you will still play a large role in the adoption process. You can even remain a part of your child’s life after the process if you choose an open or semi-open adoption, depending on the agreement you made with your child’s new adoptive family.

The Adoptive Parents

The adoptive parents are the new family who agrees to raise and care for the adoptee. This is not an insignificant decision, as they have made a promise to support your child emotionally and financially for the rest of his or her life. Understanding the effort and work that they put in to care for your child is very important, as well as how much they are helping your child by creating a home for him or her. 

As a friend or relative, referring to the adoptive family simply as the mother and father can be very helpful in making it clear that you support their decision, so making that effort is extremely worthwhile. It can also help your child feel more secure in their new environment, and the adoptive parents more sure of themselves. 

The Symbol of Adoption

While every situation is unique, understanding each aspect of the adoption triad can be helpful, regardless of what category you fall under. Even if you are a family member or just a friend, knowing a bit about what each person has gone through can make it easier to support them and communicate effectively. If you have any questions, or wish to become involved in the process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. 

As an expectant woman or birth parent, to learn more about adoption, contact Adoption Choices of Texas. You can call us at 888-307-3340, text us at 888-307-3340, or email us here. If you are hoping to adopt, please visit us here. We look forward to helping you through your adoption journey!

Meet the Author: Elijah Weiner is currently studying English and East Asian Studies at Denison University, and spends the majority of his free time reading a good science fiction book. His interest has always been in fiction, so whether he is reading or writing it is always based upon the imaginary world. 

Elijah lives in Boulder, Co and spends his free time reading or bicycling outdoors.