The Importance of Adoptees Knowing Their Biological Family: A Journey to Self-Discovery
As we age, our genetic markers become more important, not just for our health but for our sense of self. This is especially true for adoptees, who often grapple with questions about their origins, medical history, and family heritage.
Understanding the Significance of Family History in Health
Doctors often ask about family history of diseases because it can provide critical insights into potential health risks. For example, if adoptees know about their biological family's medical history, they can take proactive steps to monitor and manage their own health. In the journey of self-discovery, this information serves as a roadmap to better health and understanding.
Biometric information is crucial, as it helps identify genetic predispositions to certain conditions. For instance, a person might find out they are at higher risk of heart disease, cancer, or other hereditary illnesses. This knowledge can guide their lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and regular screenings.
The Challenges and Rewards of Seeking One's Biological Family
Seeking out one's biological family is not always straightforward. Some adoptees find that the process is fraught with emotional challenges. On one hand, they might learn that their birth family is in a difficult situation, which can be disheartening. On the other hand, the truth can bring a sense of closure and completeness to one's identity.
Some argue that ignorance is bliss, but for many adoptees, knowledge is inherently empowering. It allows them to navigate life with a better understanding of their background and genetic makeup. While the process might be emotionally taxing, the rewards of self-discovery can be profound.
The Impact on Adoptive Families and Siblings
Not all adoptive families are on the same page when it comes to seeking out biological information. Some adoptive parents might feel threatened or uncomfortable with the idea of their children knowing their biological heritage. This can lead to confusion and conflict within the adoptive family.
For instance, a brother and sister who were adopted from other parents might not share the same level of interest in finding their biological family. This difference in perspective can cause tension as they grow older and begin to share their experiences with their biological siblings.
On the other hand, some adoptive parents feel it is their duty to respect their children's need to explore their biological roots. They understand that their children have a fundamental right to know their family history. However, sometimes the necessary information is not available, and this can be a source of regret for both the adoptive parents and the children.
The Abuse Within the Adoption System
The adoption system is often criticized for its unbalanced nature, particularly when it comes to the rights of birth families. Adoptees have the right to know about their origins, genetic markers, and medical history, which should not be kept secret forever. Adoption should not be a contract that the birth parents agreed to as infants or children, and they should not be forbidden from knowing who gave birth to them or what their medical history is.
The protection of adoptees' rights to know about their biological family is crucial for their emotional and physical well-being. This includes access to medical information, family histories, and personal backgrounds. It is important to recognize the unusual and often abusive nature of the current adoption system and work towards reforms that prioritize the rights and needs of all parties involved.
Advocating for the Rights of Adoptees
Adoptees should have access to as much information as possible about their biological family. This includes their genetic markers, medical history, and family stories. Adoptive parents and adoptees alike should advocate for the rights of adoptees to know about their origins. If adoptive parents do not have the necessary information, then efforts should be made to provide it.
Ultimately, the goal is to empower adoptees to make informed decisions about their health, their family, and their identity. By accessing this information, they can better understand themselves and their place in the world, creating a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Conclusion
Adoptees have a right to know about their biological family, and doing so can have a profound impact on their sense of self and overall well-being. While the process may be emotionally challenging, it is ultimately worth the effort. As we continue to advocate for the rights of all parties involved in the adoption process, we must prioritize the well-being and rights of the individuals who are at the heart of it all: the adoptees themselves.
For those interested in reading a personal account of the journey to self-discovery, consider reading “Herein Lies The Truth”, a memoir by Marian Bell, which delves into her experiences as an adoptee.