USQ researchers look at adoptees’ experiences

Dr Passmore said the study would hopefully address some of the issues faced by adoptees

Two researchers from USQ have commenced a study that will look at the experience of adoptees.

Associate Professor in Psychology Dr Nola Passmore and Honours student Terese Levi are looking for participants to take part in their study which they hope will shed light on the problems adoptees face and the services needed to support them.

Dr Passmore said that while they recognise the importance of the experience of all members of the adoption triangle, the study would focus on the experience of adoptees.

'Much of the past research has tended to focus on the problems or challenges faced by adoptees rather than the strengths adoptees can bring to the situation,' she said.

'We hope to address that imbalance. In particular, we’ll be looking at variables such as hope, resilience, forgiveness, self-esteem, and depression, with a view to determining which factors predict greater and poorer well-being in adoptees.

'In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of post-adoption services for all members of the adoption triangle (i.e., adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive parents).

'It is hoped that the results of the study will have implications for the provision of support services to adoptees and their families.'

In order to take part, participants need to be at least 18 years of age and must have been adopted by non-relatives prior to their second birthday. Participation involves completing an anonymous questionnaire that will take about 20-30 mins. If you’re interested in taking part or would like to know more, please contact Dr Nola Passmore on nola.passmore@usq.edu.au or 4631 1683.

Contact Details:
Connie-Louise Rego, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977