Perspectivas dos profissionais e das famílias adotivas sobre a criação de serviços de pós-adoção em Portugal

Abstract

The main purpose of this research focuses on the perspective of professionals and adoptive families about the need for post-adoption services in Portugal. Eight adoptive families residing in the districts of Lisboa and Setúbal and four professionals working in adoption service of Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa and in the Associação Meninos do Mundo have accepted to participate in this qualitative study that included semistructured interviews with adoptive families and a focus group with professionals as research methodologies. The results of the study showed that both groups of participants agree with several challenges inherent to adoptive parenthood, as specific needs of adopted children, their behavior and difficulties in establishing rules and routines as well as discrimination concerns. It was found, however, differences in the professionals’ perspectives and families, professionals defined adoption revelation as a key challenge unlike parents who mentioned the search for biological family. This study also allowed for better understanding of the main concerns, needs and difficulties experienced by adoptive families and hence realize which should be targeted for intervention along the life cycle of the adoptive family. Regarding the structuring of post-adoption services in Portugal, families and professionals highlighted the importance of skilled professionals in the area of adoption as well as support groups for parents. Adoptive parents also pointed out the need for specific training on parental adoption namely through workshops, role-play and medical monitoring. In addition, both professionals and families agree about the importance of individual support for each family (e.g., family counseling, family therapy) as well as psychological support for the children. This investigation has concluded that post-adoption services are essential to support adoptive families, so that they have qualified expert backing adjusted to their specific needs and difficulties.

Date of Award	2014
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Rita Francisco (Supervisor)