What is the Difference between Family Adoption and Private Adoption?

When we hear the word, “adoption,” we usually think of a child who has been adopted or raised by someone they are not biologically related to. However, this is not always the best definition of adoption, as there are many different ways a child can be put up for adoption, including relative and family adoptions that occur within the family unit. 

If you are a pregnant woman in Texas considering adoption, you are probably wondering what the difference between family adoption and private adoption is, and whether either of these options would be right for you and your child. As an expectant mother, it is important that you know your options, and Adoption Choices of Texas is here to keep you informed during your adoption process.

If you need help with adoption now, you can call us at 945-444-0333, text us at 945-444-0333, or email us here.

What is Family or Relative Adoption?

A family adoption, also known as a relative adoption, occurs when a child is adopted by a relative. The most common circumstances relative adoptions occur are the sudden death of both birth parents, the debilitation of the birth parents, or the abandonment of the child by the birth parents. However, a family adoption may also proceed if only one birth parent is involved in any of these circumstances, and the other is judged to be an unfit parent.

Family adoptions are usually defined as those taking place within the family unit, meaning that a child is adopted by their grandparents, aunt or uncle, cousin, or sibling. While family adoptions are most often conducted by grandparents or aunts and uncles, there is no reason why a sibling or cousin would be unable to do so, provided they have the financial stability to support a child. 

What is Private Adoption?

A private adoption is one that occurs without government involvement, and is usually conducted with the help of an adoption agency like Adoption Choices of Texas. Within a private adoption, the birth parents decide to place their child for adoption for any number of reasons. Another common feature of private adoptions is that the birth parent is able to maintain a relationship with their child in an open adoption, even after their child’s placement.

In a private adoption, there are a number of important decisions that you as the birth mother will be able to make. Who do you want to raise your child? Do you want to remain in contact with your child and their adoptive family? If you are working with our adoption agency, you will decide these questions with the help of an adoption caseworker, who will help you determine what is best for you and your child. Our adoption agency will additionally be able to provide financial assistance to you as the birth mother for many pregnancy related expenses.

Which Adoption Option is Right for You and Your Child?

As an expectant mother, it is important that you feel informed and able to decide what is best for you and your child, as no one can make the decision for you. However, we understand that the decision is never easy, and we are here to help you in any way we can. While you are considering your options though, it is important to remember the differences between family adoption and private adoption.

If you are currently experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, Adoption Choices of Texas is here to help you consider your adoption options. We want to make sure that you have a positive and rewarding adoption journey, and we are here to help in any way we can, whether you choose a family adoption or private adoption. If you have any questions or concerns about the adoption process, please don’t wait to reach out. We are here to support both you and your child.

As an expectant woman or birth parent, to learn more about adoption, contact Adoption Choices of Texas. You can call us at 945-444-0333, text us at 945-444-0333, 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: Jennie Knuppel is a student at the University of Texas at Austin studying English Literature. She is currently enrolled in the English Honors Program, for which she is writing a thesis in comparative literature prior to graduating in the spring of 2022. Jennie has previously taken courses in literature and both creative and technical writing, and she spent four years working in her high school’s journalism department. 

Jennie is also currently working as a barista, and, in her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and pets.