Adoptee Experiences of Adoption Stigma

This mixed-methods study analyzes adoptees’ experiences and perceptions of adoption stigma, drawing on survey responses from 523 adoptees and three focus groups with 23 adoptees. Participants represented intercountry, private domestic, and foster care adoption. While 42% of survey respondents reported no stigma, 35% experienced stigma from three or more sources, often classmates and the general community. Focus groups highlighted four key domains of adoption stigma: belief and focus, method, source, and impact. Participants also described other harmful beliefs and experiences, while not categorically within the scope of adoption stigma, that provided important reflections on experiences that negatively impact adoptees. These findings deepen understanding of adoption stigma and support more informed public discourse.