As we grow up, parents support us, teach us how to form relationships and interact with others, and eventually find our place in society. However, not everyone has these facilities that most of us take for granted. For this reason, since 1976, National Adoption Day is celebrated in November every year in the United States in various forms. In 1990, it officially became National Adoption Awareness Month.
What is the theme of Adoption Awareness Month 2022?
The theme for this year’s Adoption Awareness Month is Small Steps Opening Doors. They signify the meaning of adoption, opening the door for children to a healthy upbringing. But it is also suggested that raising awareness about the adoption process in the community can help young children in the foster care system have a chance at a typical and healthy life.
To participate in this event, you can spread awareness about adoption among your social circle and encourage anyone you know who is looking for a child to consider adoption. These small steps can change a child’s (and parent’s) life for the better.
Why is adoption awareness necessary?
Growing up in a foster home or without parents can hamper the upbringing of any child and lead to problems that will haunt them into adulthood. Adopt someone who has become a parent and help them by taking on the responsibility of a healthy upbringing. Adoption is an excellent choice for people who want to raise their children. Hence, spreading awareness about adoption in the community is essential. With this awareness, we can also improve adoption systems, and the process of adopting someone can be made much easier.
However, awareness has another goal: to help parents understand that raising a child is a huge responsibility that they will take on. According to Erik Erikson’s development model, many conflicts and situations are identified in childhood. For example, during 5-13 years, a child chooses between ability to perform a task and inferiority or disability. One of these traits is identified when a child tries to complete tasks and achieve different results. Hence, providing care and attention to the child is crucial, helping him make the right choices and become a more capable adult.
Read more: Mental Health Awareness Month 2022
Adoption and mental health
according to Study from Broadzinsky, MDAdopted children are more likely to suffer from psychological and school-related problems. In social settings, they may feel inferior, unloved, or different from their peers. Or they may be prone to depression and depressive thoughts and behavior. To combat this vulnerability, we must provide them with the appropriate tools, beliefs, and mindset to live. Educators and parents also need to foster a sense of equality and environments that foster growth and cooperation for their students and children.
Read more: Create an inclusive environment in Bullying Prevention Month
conclusion
Adoption is an act of service that means helping someone to have a healthy, happy upbringing and a wonderful life. Adoption Awareness Month has been celebrated in the United States since 1990. The event aims to inspire affirmative action, encourage adopters to make decisions, and open a new door for life to thrive. Likewise, the theme for this November 2022 event is “Small Steps Opening Doors”.
According to studies, adopted children are more likely to have problems in school, home, and other social environments. It is necessary to take action to reduce or eliminate these problems, since relationships are the basis of human growth and development. Here is a blog post that explains How family relationships affect mental health to help you understand the same.
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