intercountry adoption

not flesh of my flesh not bone of my bone but still miraculously my own. never forget for a single minute you didnt grow under my heart but in it.
(bettina schulz)

kantonale maturittsschule fr erwachsene nadine furrer hafenstrasse 2 8820 wdenswil tutor charlotte chiriac zurich, october 2009

Table of contents
1. Preamble 2. Introduction 3. Historical Background 3.1. Adoption Statistics in Switzerland 4. Procedure of adopting a foreign child in Switzerland 4.1 . Legal Requirements for Couples Interested in Adopting a Child 4.2. Preparations 4.2.1. Information Event 4.2.2. Preparation Course 4.3. Application for Adoption 4.3.1. Selection Process 4.3.2. Adoptee Legal Status when first entering Switzerland 4.4. Approximate Costs for Intercountry Adoption 5. Consequences of Intercountry Adoption 5.1. Psychological Aspects 5.1.1. Search for Identity 5.1.2. Ancestor Consolidation 5.1.3. Adopted Child Syndrome 5.2. Negative Societal Consequence 5.2.1. Child Trafficking 5.2.2. Racism 6. Interview of Adoptees 5.3. Questionnaire 5.4. Analysis 7. Conclusion 8. Work protocol 9. Bibliography 10. Abstract 11. Declaration 12. Appendix 12.1. Adoption Statistics Switzerland 12.2. Interview Attachments 12.3. International Adoption Procedure WITH The Hague Convention 12.4. International Adoption Procedure WITHOUT The Hague Convention 12.5. List of Offices of Intermediates Page 3 4 5 6 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 9 9 10 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 14 14 15 17 19 21 23 24 25 25 26 30 32 34

1. Preamble
During my past travels I have come across many different cultures with challenging life circumstances. Often it was the innocent children, who affected me most. They seemed to have no real perspective on their future. It was during my volunteer stay in Estel in the North of Nicaragua, when I first thought of adopting a girl. Concecpion, a Nicaraguan girl, was already eleven at that stage. Every Sunday afternoon the girls used to wait at the fence in front of the centre Sor Maria Romero expecting their parents to come around the corner. As soon as they caught a glimpse of them they were giggling and crying out their parents names. Except Concepcion, whom we lovingly called Conchita, she never had a visitor. Her mother left the family, when Concepcion was still a baby and her father was a drunkard. Nobody really cared for her. Her disappointment grew bigger every time the other parents showed up. After my two months stay I left the centre but promised the girls to return to visit them soon. I didnt make it back to Estel that year. And when I eventually returned last summer Concepcion had had left the centre. I believe adopting her would have been a great chance for her. It might have provided her with new perspectives especially in terms of education. This time it wasnt meant to be, but another opportunity might present itself...

2. Introduction
Adoption pre-dates the supposed birth date of Jesus Christ. It can be considered as an institution which has delivered considerable benefits to our society. In this thesis I am focusing on intercountry adoption with children who were born in developing countries, and thereafter raised by adopters in Switzerland. The numbers of intercountry adoptions rose dramatically following World War II, but have sure decreased following the implementation of The Hague Convention. This is due to the fact, that today orphanages attempt to find suitable homes for abandoned children in their home countries first. It is common for sick or disadvantaged children to be given away for adoption. We will see later in the paper some examples from countries like India. Every child should have the chance to grow up in a family environment, in an atmosphere of love, happiness, and understanding. In many cases intercountry adoption can serve this purpose. For children who cannot be raised by their own families, an appropriate alternative family environment should be sought in preference to institutional care, which should be used only as a last resort and as a temporary measure. Intercountry adoption is one of a range of care options which may be open to children, and for individual children who cannot be placed in a permanent family setting in their countries of origin, it may indeed be the best solution. In each case, the best interests of the individual child must be the guiding principle in making a decision regarding adoption. (Unicef, 10.08.09) The process of adopting a child demands endurance, is extremely complicated and of course decisions taken need to be considered in the childs best interest. Adopters have to pass various selection criteria which can be tough for the prospective parents. The detailed adoption procedure in Switzerland will be treated in this paper. The purpose for such an enduring procedure is to protect children from abuse or trafficking. In order to understand the experiences adoptees1 have made, I have created questionnaires and analysed the given answers as part of this empirical thesis. Besides its scientific studies this work includes a creative part. Several self-taken photographs show children and their countenance.

I refer to the adoptee in an androgynous form, since the adopted come in both sexes.

3. Historical Background
Since ancient times children have been transferred from their genetic parents to adults who wanted them for love, labour, or property. During 1729-1680 BC various adoption laws were introduced in Babylonia, Assyria, and Mesopotania. Some of the causes for the regulation of adoption were childlessness, the need for a heir and off course power. (Bettina Trietsch, p. 1) During Roman times, two forms of adoption were commonly known which were written into Roman law statues. Arrogatio was one of them and meant taking on an adult older than 60 years to ensure family inheritance. (Bettina Trietsch, p. 2) The second adoption statue referred to minor children and was known as adoptio. It was confirmed with a contract signed by the father. Following the required signature, the child became a full and equal member of the family. In these days women were not allowed to adopt. (Bettina Trietsch, p. 2) Over time adoption rose in popularity this influenced improved family relations. The first modern adoption law was enacted with the Massachusetts Adoption of Children Act in the United States during 1851 (www.darkwing.edu). Following World War II child adoption increased in number and poprlarity. Within two years, at least 1700 children were transferred from Europe to the United States. Some of them were war orphans or children born to unmarried mothers. (Bettina Trietsch, S. 5) In Switzerland the first adoption legislation was introduced by 1939. Until 1967 Switzerland had no regulated process for adopting foreign children. In 1965 the organisation Terre des Hommes2 sent an application to the FDJP3 for children from Vietnam to enter Switzerland for medical health care. Prior to the FDJP decision, thirtytwo Vietnamese children arrived at the aiport Cointrin in Geneva. In June 1967 the FDJP aggres to allow foreign orphans to enter Switzerland under certain conditions. (Ilaria Ceschi, p. 122) The cultural shift following World War II, changed adoption emphasis from finding homes for needy children to finding children for childless couples . The old and conservative adoption laws got reformed during 1972, which resulted in a larger number of adoptions. Since then adoption has increased in popularity in Switzerland. The social background for these developments is certainly the diminutive birth rate due to life style changes, trends, etc. On the contrary the numbers of parents seeking children for adoption has been rising steadily. (Ilaria Ceschi, p. 123) Today most countries that in effect give away children for adoption have been devastated by either war or poverty. Indigenous families typically have too many children to support, and give them away in the hopes that they would live a better life somewhere else.

3.1. Adoption Statistics in Switzerland

Most adoptions in Switzerland formerly involved Swiss children. The dropping numbers in Swiss children being presented for adoption can be explained with anecdotal evidence.
2

Terre des Hommes is a non-profit organisation, which pursues the improvement of living conditions of underprivileged populations in the south as well as raising awareness of the causes of disparities between North and South 3 Swiss Federal Department of Justice and Police

Today single mothers are accepted by the society and supported by the government. The adoption numbers declined since the implementation of The Hague Convention. A context of declining numbers of intercountry adoptions and increasing media attention to corruption and child trafficking in the intercountry systems can bee seen. Adoption is justified in cases only where it works to the best of the child and provides the child with genuine shelter. Adoption in a foreign country should be an option only when and if there is no viable alternative in the childs country of origin. (SSI, 3.9.09) Intensified controls as well as the effort to place parentless children in their country of origin as first priority are other valid reasons for the diminishing numbers of intercountry adoptions. The statistics gives a good overview on the declining numbers of adoption in Switzerland.4 Year Adopted children in CH 1980 1'583 1990 1'198 1995 1'030 2000 808 2002 702 2004 854 2005 647 2007 582 2008 575

Adoption is often the last possibilities for building a family. In times where Western societies face increased infertility the number of couples applying for adoption rises. An excess demand for adoption is the consequences.

The full statistic from the Bundesamt fr Statistik is attached in the appendix.

4. Intercountry Adoption Procedures in Switzerland

In Switzerland two different pools for couples interested in adoption exist. One pool is for domestic adoption another for intercountry adoption. A couple needs to decide whether they want to apply for domestic adoption or intercountry adoption meaning that they can only be in one pool at any given time. The adoption process between domestic or intercountry differs slightly. Applicant couples should be aware that due to the involvement of another country different rules apply and other requirements may need to be fulfilled.5 Without marriage the chances are low for a successful adoption. In case of intercountry adoption the couple needs to choose one country, as land of origin for the perspective child. Only one country can be chosen. Applications handed in by single men are usually rejected.

4.1. Legal Requirements for Couples Interested in Adopting a Child

The child needs to be at least sixteen years younger than its adoptive parents Adoptive parents have to be married for five years, however, adoptive parents can also be married less than five years but both of them need to be at least 35 years of age Only married couples can adopt children Single persons can adopt a child with the minimum age of 35

Not many countries accept adoption through a single person. The requirement for marriage is therefore unavoidable for a successful adoption application.

4.2. Preparations 4.2.1. Information Event

Prior to handing in the papers the couples, who are interested in adopting a child have to visit an information event, which lasts approximately three hours. Representatives of a Schweizerische Fachstelle fr Adoption6 inform about the requirements, and the differences between national adoption and intercountry adoption.

Information on the requirements of the different countries of origin can be found under http://www.bj.admin.ch/bj/de/home/themen/gesellschaft/internationale_adoption/herkunftslaender.html.
6

Abbreviation for Schweizerische Fachstelle fr Adoption used in this essay SFA. Linked internet page www.adoption.ch

4.2.2. Preparation Course

A preparation course takes place lasting one and a half day and is highly recommended by the SFA. In some cantons the course is compulsory and needs to be attended before an application can be sent to the authorities.7 During the course three main topics are treated. Those topics are Motivation and Expectations, Taking on a child, and Problems with adoption; Future with or without child adoption?.

4.3. Application for Adoption 4.3.1. Application

For the full application a wide range of papers and documents are required and need to be presented to the authorities. An Office of Intermediation such as Terre des Hommes assist in translating and putting together the necessary dossier. It is recommended to work together with such an organisation to make collaboration between the two countries easier. The dossier includes following papers: Biography inclusive pictures Certificate of the enforcement records (Betreibungsregisterauszug) Certificate of the criminal records (Strafregisterauszug) Copy of the family booklet Copy of the passport Tax declaration (Steuererklrung) Signed obligation to support the child

When the application has been submitted to the authorities the responsible SFA get involved. Next step a representative from the SFA schedules at least two sessions. Those sessions last about four to six hours and take place alternately in the office of the SFA or in the couples home. When the family situation has been reviewed and considered as capable to adopt then the application goes into the pool.

4.3.2. Selection process

When a child is given free for adoption there is usually a cool-off period of several months where the mother can change her decision and get her child back. In Switzerland the period is twelve weeks in total. During that period the child is taken care off by an institutional home. The mother signs an agreement stating complete renunciation of any rights on her child. That record is held by the state. In case of intercountry adoption those records are often held secretly to protect the biological mother. The Office of Intermediation does the communication and necessary arrangements between Switzerland and the childs country of origin.

The Bundesamt fr Justiz8 and the Office of Intermediation make the selection of the perspective parents out of the pool. A dossier is prepared and sent to the childs country of origin. The foreign authorities then review the dossier and decide based on their
List with responsible authorities for each canton is attached in the appendix Abbreviation BJ for Bundesamt fr Justiz is used in this thesis
7

evaluation criteria. The decision can be expected after one to two years, but can take up to five years in the worst case. In case of a positive feedback a social report about the child goes back to the Swiss authorities. The Cantonal authorities undertake another Matching-Decision process to see if the perspective parents are eligible and suited. This explains the sometimes very long waiting period. The applicants need to give a signed acceptance for the recommended child. Following a positive Matching-Decision the Swiss Federal Authorities take all the necessary steps to obtain permission for the child to leave the State of origin and to enter and reside permanently in the receiving State. (The Hague Convention, article 18) Most of the States of origin demand a personal pickup by the perspective parents. Psychologically this is a very important step of the adoption because it gives the perspective parents the chance to see where the child is coming from. Adoption brings a radical change to the life of a child. It is therefore very important that the child is accompanied by the new parents during this process of placement.

4.3.3. Adoptee Legal Status when first entering Switzerland

The adoption can either be directly approved or the child can be given into foster care for at least one year.9 Differences appear for countries in regards to apply or non-apply of the Hague Convention. Currently 69 States signed the convention.10

4.4. Approximate Costs for Intercountry Adoption

Discussions with representatives from SFA Clarification Organisation of intermediation Placement Total costs (without MwSt) CHF CHF CHF CHF 2500.00 2500.00 - 3500.00 8000.00 - 30000.00 2400.00

CHF 15400.00 38400.00

10

Chart overview attached to appendix. The full convention is available under http://www.hcch.net/index_en.php?act=conventions.pdf&cid=69

5. Consequences of Intercountry Adoption

5.1. Psychological Aspects
An adoptee will arrive in the family with a history, which will inevitably influence the childs behaviour. The conditions of care in the institutions of the country of origin play a central role in the mental and physical state of health of the child when the child arrives in the receiving country. In some institutions several children might have to share one bed, there sometimes is not enough staff and there is insufficient basic equipment. Children who stay in institutions for several years often show monotonous symptoms. Adopters have to pay particular attention to such symptoms and should consult a specialist if such problems present themselves.11

5.1.1. Search for Identity

Sigmund Freud, the famous psychoanalyst, had a significant influence on modern adoption theory and practice. He found it ridiculously that psychoanalysis was embraced as a practice to cure a variety of ailments related to personal adjustment, sexual happiness, and family life. Adoption was one example of it. In Freuds opinion children practised escapism from their parents during their childhood. In order to accomplish this liberation, he argued, children invariably called upon fantasies acted out in play and daydreams and imagined that their real parents were much better, kinder, and more exalted than the imperfect parents raising them.12
Sigmund Freud (18561939)13

Freud called such comforting but fictive fairy tales family romance. Those fictional stories that children told themselves linked Freudian theory directly to adoption. He assumed that all children experienced an adoption scenario at some stage in life because it allowed them to express ambivalence and anger towards their parents. At the same time they encouraged themselves to develop their independent identity and become healthy adults. Those scenarios might work for most children, however, for adoptees they are causing problems. Adoptees, who imagine another pair of parents, are not in falsehood but are facing up to reality. There is that real element of mystery in the illegitimate background of an adoptee. Who were my birth parents? Why did they give me away? Was there something wrong with me? Freuds developmental theory implied that adoptees faced certain emotional challenges inseparable from the adoption process itself. The loss of biological parents leads inevitably towards unanswered and sometimes unanswerable questions. One of the demands of an adoptee is the search of their ancestral roots. The desire to know where an adoptee is from will appear sooner or later in life. Some follow the urge to find out more about their ancestry, while others dont dare to investigate.

11

http://www.iss-ssi.org/2009/assets/files/thematic-factssheet/eng/45.Prep%20paps%20and%20decision%20eng.pdf 12 Adoption History : Sigmund Freud 13 Source of picture http://www.babelio.com/users/AVT_Sigmund-Freud_7309.jpeg (consulted on October 24, 2009)

Bettina Trietsch writes: Beim Aufbau der persnlichen Identitt fllt der Vergangenheitsbewltigung eine massgebliche Rolle zu. (Bettina Trietsch, p. 73)

5.1.2. Ancestor Consolidation

The life of an adoptee might often appear like a story without knowing the beginning. Some adoptees seriously start looking for their ancestors. When adoptees want to find our more about their earlier lives and their genealogy it is often done secretly because they do not dare to speak about it with their parents. It is therefore very important that the adoptive parents are honest and inform their adopted child when the time is appropriate. Every human has the right to know where the child is from. Unfortunately there are many instances where this is not the case. Some adoptive parents fear loosing their children. For them it seems to be a very threatening phenomenon. (Betty Jean Liffton, p. 11-18) Starting looking for the biological parents is often like stepping onto an endless road. In Switzerland an adoptee can consult the SFA. An adoptee should bring along as many papers and information as possible. Without precious information it is very difficult to do a successful search. This is mainly due to certain restrictions defined in the country of origin. In countries like India it is difficult to get any data. The records are kept secretly in order to guarantee complete privacy for all involved parties.

5.1.3 Adopted Child Syndrome

The adopted child syndrome is understood as a series of traits that are specific or peculiar to adoptees. It is a controversial term but Betty Jean Lifton writes about it in her book Lost and Found: The Adoption Experience. She has been adopted herself and fact is important to mention in this paper. Common traits are states of anxiety and the desire for safety. Those desires can often be observed by children, who were living in an orphanage before. In developing countries orphanages are often overcrowded and some of them in terrible states. Even when those places are kept as clean as possible the psychological impact on a child is enormous. Out of hundreds of children no one gets sufficient attention from the orphanage staff. Starting from their first days of life those children fight against loneliness. The majority of adoptees suffer from severe physical deprivation like monotonous and apathetic patterns of behaviour. When children are transferred to another country for intercountry adoption those symptoms can last for several years or and sometimes entire lives. The older a child is before being, the more difficult the adaption to a new environment will be. It is very important that the perspective parents are aware of specific patterns of behaviour in order to support with responsive measures. A trusted environment and emotional connection gives children stability. In several books it has been emphasized that adopters should try to involve the country of origin in upbringing of their child. It somehow enables the child to have a natural feeling about its roots. (Bettina Trietsch, p. 80)

5.2. Negative Societal Consequences 5.2.1. Child Trafficking

Child trafficking refers to any act whereby a child is transferred by any person or group for remuneration or any other consideration. It is illegal to pay in any form for a human being.

When adopting a child it is important to ensure that all is done in the best interest of the child with respect to their fundamental rights. Children must be prevented from abduction, sales, or child trafficking. Today child trafficking is a global problem encompassing several issues including today prostitution, pornography and child labour. (Ilaria Ceschi, p. 41) Unicef is dedicated to the protection of children, the promotion of childrens rights and are actively involved in stopping child trafficking. This institution works closely with other key institutions in order to promote strategic consistency as well as complement the various efforts among different players. One of the main actions of UNICEF are the data collection and analysis of studies and documentation produced by governments, academic and research institutions, UN agencies, regional institutions and non-governmental organizations, and the development of a database to classify qualitative and quantitative data. Knowledge transfer is maintained by consistently promoting and actively sharing research results. Data is collected within UNICEF, UN agencies, and relevant government ministries. (www.unicef.org) The Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption is another measure intended to shield international adoption from child trafficking. It was an important development for both adopting families and adopted children, because it promotes ethical and transparent processes, undertaken in the best interests of the child. The Hague Convention of 29 May 1993 on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention) protects children and their families against the risks of illegal, irregular, premature or ill-prepared adoptions abroad. This Convention, which also operates through a system of national Central Authorities, reinforces the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Art. 21) and seeks to ensure that intercountry adoptions are made in the best interests of the child and with respect for his or her fundamental rights, and to prevent the abduction, the sale of, or traffic in children. (www.hcch.net).

5.2.2. Raciscm
As soon as ones appearance differs from the majority of a sample group of inhabitants, racism can appear. For adoptees coming from a foreign country this is a consequence of their different looks, such as skin colour. In terms of intercountry adoption I have integrated this topic within my thesis. Explanation from Dictionary: Racism is the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics or abilities specific to that race, esp. so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races. prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on such a belief : a program to combat racism. In the book Schwarze aus Deutschland says an Afro-German: Das ist eine blde Situation diese Haut zu haben und sich damit wie ein Weisser zu fhlen. Nur wenn ich in den Spiegel schaue, merke ich, dass ich Schwarz bin oder braun. (Karin Thimm, p. 123) Switzerland as a strongly developed country has implemented an Anti-Racism law in the Swiss legislation in January 2005.14

14

Landesrecht ; Schweizerisches Strafgesetzbuch, Artikel 261. URL: http://www.admin.ch/ch/d/sr/311_0/a261bis.html (consulted on October 24, 2009)

Questionnaire 6. Interviews with zum Thema Adoption Zur Person

Adoptees

6.1. Questionnaire Geschlecht f m Alter ____ Herkunftsland ____________ The questionnaire below has Was fr eine Ausbildung hast du absolviert? been sent out to several adoptees. Most of them I have met personally deine Heimat an? Welches Land fhlt sich alsto go through the questions again after having received their answers.
Fhlst du dich als Schweizer oder eher als Auslnder/In? I have created Herkunftslandes? Sprichst du die Sprache deinesthe questionnaire myself, considering three main topics such as Adoption in General What do adoptees think about it, The search for identity, and Racism. Zur Adoption Mit wie vielen Jahren wurdest du adoptiert? Erinnerst du dich an das erste Treffen mit deinen Adoptiveltern? War der Zeitpunkt geeignet, falls es einen solchen gibt? Wurdest du aus deinen Familienverhltnissen rausgerissen? Gibt es deiner Ansicht nach einen idealen Zeitpunkt fr die Adoption im Leben eines Kindes? Kennst du deine leiblichen Eltern? Deine Geschwister? Wenn ja, wie war das erste Zusammentreffen und wie ist euer Verhltnis heute? Wie hufig habt ihr Kontakt? Falls nicht, wrdest du deine leiblichen Eltern gerne kennen lernen oder mehr ber ihre Vergangenheit wissen? Kennst du die Grnde, weshalb du zur Adoption frei gegeben wurdest? Hast du dein Herkunftsland schon einmal besucht? Siehst du deine Adoption als glckliches oder eher schweres Schicksal? Gibt dir deine Adoptivfamilie sprbaren Rckhalt? Zum Leben in der Schweiz Hast du Geschwister? Was sind deine Kindheitserinnerungen in Bezug auf den sozialen Kontakt? Wurdest du in der Schule ausgestossen oder gehnselt wegen deinem anderen Aussehen? Hattest du die Mglichkeit dich auszusprechen bei deinen Eltern, Freunden oder einer Frsorge? Wie ist die Beziehung zu deinen Adoptiveltern? Welche Berufe ben deine Eltern aus? Zum Fragebogen Wurden wichtige Aspekte ausgelassen? Wrst du offen fr ein persnliches Gesprch mit mir?

6.2. Analysis
Empirical studies performed by any given individual surely need to be considered with some limitations. Additionally the evaluation is based on the answers from a sample group of four adoptees. Although I have sent out the questionnaire to twenty people, only four of them have returned the questionnaire. Considering the delicacy of this topic a low percentage of feedbacks should be expected. Four adoptees were open and frank and answered the questions in detail and with precise explanations. For a better illustration this analysis shows the average feeling the interviewed adoptees expressed. The full answers, which were returned by the adoptees are attached on the appendix on page 26.

6.2.1. Adoption in General What do Adoptees think about?

Those interviewed have mixed feelings towards adoption. One of the adoptees considers adoption a terrible act. She compared it with a forceful pull out from her familiar surroundings. Most of them didnt want to value adoption in general but rather consider each situation to be evaluated on its own merits. They all agreed that all steps need to be taken in the childs best interest. One of the questioned adoptees confirmed that adoption was definitely the better option to growing up in an orphanage. The ideal situation is to grow up with their biological parents.

What do adoptees think about adoption generally?

Negative

Positive

6.2.2 Search for Identity

For those adoptees, who had a childhood isolated from their country of origin there is a hidden part inside of them where they describe a personal secret without having the key. One of the adoptees told me that she as though she doesnt completely know herself even when she was asked how to characterize herself she was not sure which adjectives to use. All adoptees felt themselves confronted by an identity problem. They have several unanswered questions such as: Who were my ancestors? Which behaviour was passed from my biological parents? There is a recognizable desire for openness and transparency on the topic adoption from the perspective of the adoptive parents. The earlier the adoptive parents inform the adoptees, the more natural this topic becomes. Some adoptees still consider it difficult to ask questions about their adoption towards their adoptive parents. It is a topic, which they feel awkward talking about. They find it easier to talk with friends, who have also been adopted. Other adoptees consider their mother as the nearest trustworthy person in their lives. The stronger the relationship within their family, the easier adoptees can deal with their past and situation First most of the adoptees have thoughts only about their past and their biological

parents. At a later stage in life adoptees are going to seek for their biological parents. Opinions therefore differ in regard to data capturing of their past. Some of the adoptees want to know more about their biological parents and step onto a road of often endless seeking. Others clearly do not want to dig in their past and have accepted their situation the way it is. It can be said that adoptees transferred nationally within Switzerland or Germany more likely had the chance to meet their biological parents. Unfortunately it was described as disappointing in many cases. Are adoptees question their past?

No

Yes

6.2.3. Racism
Racism didnt seem like a major issue in the life of an adoptee. Most of the adoptees dont see it as a problem. One of these questioned said she had some problems in school. The child esteemed because of her small body size and her religion. She is Hebrew. In general adoptees consider themselves Swiss. They like Swiss food and of course they speak fluently Swiss German. Most of them took on the view of religion from their adoptive parents.

Are adoptees victims of racism?

No

Yes

7. Conclusion
When I started to investigate the topic adoption, I was sure that adopting a child can be seen as a positive step in the direction of world balance. Too many sad pictures, lost children and deprived living conditions were engraved on my memory. I looked at adoption as a chance, which enables innocent creatures, a better life in aspects of educational aspects. Sinking deeper into the topic adoption it made me aware of the impacts adoption has on a child. Adoption can be explained from various perspectives. On the one hand it is a very generous act and highly respectable act to help discriminated children, but on the other hand there is a significant portion related to egoism. The situation is exasperated while worldwide demand for newly born babies is significant. Unfortunately there are not enough people who want to adopt children older than four years. There is lobbying to get more babies for adoption as well as illegal trading with children. The Hague Convention, which has been implemented in 1993, had great influence in terms of organizing and controlling adoption. I have a very sceptical view towards the requirements an applying couple needs to achieve. One of my conclusions in terms of the sprawling adoption procedure leads direction a legal reform. In these days I find it very out of date to demand a marriage of five years. Many couples live in a concubine state because they didnt want to get married or because they do not believe in any religion. I therefore strongly suggest a reform of the statues in terms of adoption with the aim to account for concubine years. The process of adopting a child is very long and enduring, and I am sure that many children on this world have to suffer just because the authorities extend the final acceptance. Sometimes an adoption procedure goes on for five years. Those five years often cause irreparable damage on a childs psyche. Following completion of this thesis I remain a supporter of adoption but wish to emphasize that it is essential for adoptive parents to transparently discuss adoption of their children. They should start out including the topic adoption, from the very beginning. I think only then will there be natural acceptance within the family. When applicants turn themselves to intercountry adoptions, it is essential that part of their preparation focuses on the specific characteristics of the country of origin of their prospective child. (www.iss-ssi.org) For me factors like being familiar with the life and customs of the country of origin are trivial. Obviously prospective parents should be informed of that. The Office of intermediation or the SFA should help adopters getting familiar with certain customs and circumstances of the foreign country. It is inevitable that the country of origin of their perspective child will play an important role in their future family life. It also helps to understand how abandonment may be perceived there. I am a strong supporter of transparency. The child should feel free to ask any question without hesitation or strange feelings. I would like to mention another quote, which is from an unknown adoptee: Adoptiert zu sein und nichts von der eigenen Herkunft zu wissen, ist, als ob man blind durch den Nebel fliegt. (Christine Swientek, p. 11) With regards to psychological aspects I have learned that the identity problem affects adoptees in a deep sense. During personal meetings it appeared that most of them would like to know more about their ancestors or country. The conclusion of this topic shows that open communication between adopters and adopted children is very important. SFA as well as Offices of Intermediation such as Terre des Hommes offer support to adoptees in finding out more about their past. In Sweden the government even organizes journeys for adopters and adoptees to their countries of origin.

In my opinion intercountry adoption can be seen as some kind of support mechanism against poverty but informal decisions have to be taken to avoid problems like child trafficking. Adoption should not be made easily accessible in order to prevent children from trafficking or abuse. Everything should be undertaken in the childs best interest.

8. Work Protocol
At the beginning following my decision on the topic I wasnt quite sure how to approach it. From friends I knew that the procedure of adoption can become complicated. Still I was not sure why it wasnt possible for them to adopt a child. In my opinion they would have made loving and caring parents. In order to strengthen my knowledge about adoption I read several books on the subject. Additionally I spoke with many different people concerning adoption. Some were personally involved and others just curious and interested like myself. There was a multitude of ideas present but soon it was clear that I should focus on certain aspects of adoption. Due to my fondness for foreign countries it became obvious to focus on the topic of international adoption. The workshops offered at the KME were very productive and got me started. I attended the workshop Empirische Methoden from Anita Diener, Zitieren, Bibliographieren from Thomas Binder, as well as the workshop Interview from Barbara Lukesch. Following those workshops my first approach was drafting the questionnaire. Several times I revised the questions. I sent those questionnaires out to people with different age profiles and background. Later came a period where I returned to the library to secure the appropriate literature. I also spoke to several people at the SFA and got helpful literature and important information from the staff. As I decided to do my thesis in English I was focused on finding English literature. Unfortunately the books available didnt always meet my expectations. I therefore spent time reading at least fifty percentage of literature in German. My idea was to include legal aspects from selected countries. I always had the feeling that Swiss Adoption law was archaic. Personally I consider my hypothesis confirmed with the development of this thesis. During my summer holidays in Nicaragua during July 2009 I made a great effort to get as much information as possible on the legal aspects of adoption in Nicaragua. My friend Ivania Moreno de los Angeles was a huge supporter and helped me to find the right people and translate my questions into proper Spanish. Nicaragua is a poor developing country which has not signed the Hague Convention. The outcome was that an intercountry adoption is handled similarly to the regulations in the Hague Convention. Right from the start on I wanted to do a unique thesis. In my eyes aesthetic things brighten up life. The decision to include a creative aspect with focus on visual layouts was a must for me. From early I went to the Werkstatt fr Buch und Gestaltung in Zurich to look at different kind of binding possibilities. As I have a special affinity for photographs it became clear that I wanted to involve self-taken photos. All photos in this thesis have been taken during my stay in Nicaragua. The children enjoy posing for pictures there. During the first long session with Charlotte Chiriac we came to the point that it is difficult to involve and write a thesis on legal aspects. I therefore reduced the legal aspects to the adoption procedure. The session helped me to get focused again. I decided to concentrate my efforts on the experience of adoptees, the consequences of adoption and the entire adoption procedure. My first interview with a girl adopted from India was a definite success. She was very open and we had a great discussion about adoption. Later on she told me that she was very happy meeting with me and that the interview gave her the opportunity to talk freely about her thoughts.

In general the adoptees found it easier to talk with a stranger about their past and feelings rather than discuss with their families. All questionnaire participants do not really dare to speak with their parents frankly due to the fear of hurting them. Reflecting on those interviews I would include more personal questions and try to go even deeper into certain topics. It was definitely a great experience to meet the questioned adoptees personally. A discussion adds value to given answers and helps to understand different views better. Due to the limited feedback I realized that for many adoptees adoption is a delicate topic. Something they do not like to speak about. Looking back on the effects this thesis involving questioning of the adoptees was the hardest part. It was very time consuming and difficult to make an empirical analysis based on small sample. Thereafter it was a challenge to bring all the information onto paper. I had a session with Shay Griffin, an Irishman, who helped and advised with the grammatical setup. As a last activity I attended an information event from SFA in Aarau on October 21, 2009. The information and leaflets handed out by the two instructors were very informative. At that stage my thesis was already well under way and the outcome of the event justified my position on adoption. The final weekend before presenting the thesis was dedicated on the final changes and adjustments, a few last questions to Charlotte Chiriac and another review by Shay Griffin. I would like to take the opportunity to say a big thankyou to all the people who helped me with the development of this thesis. I would like to especially mention Charlotte Chiriac, Sara Klti, Shay Griffin, Ivania Moreno de los Angeles, my partner Adrian Gnter, my mum Monika Furrer, the staff from SFA, as well as all the adoptees, who were open towards this delicate topic.

9. Bibliography
Books
Ceschi, Illaria: Adoption auslndischer Kinder in der Schweiz: Aufnahme, Vermittlung und Pflegeverhltnis. 1. Auflage. Zurich: Schulthess Polygraphischer Verlag AG 1996. Ebertz, Beate: Adoption als Identittsproblem. Freibug im Breisgau: Lambertus-Verlag 1987. Lifton, Betty Jean: Lost & Found: The Adoption Experience. Reprint. New York: Dial Press 1979. Napp-Peters, Anneke: Adoption Das alleinstehende Kind und seine Familien. Darmstadt: Hermann Luchterhand Verlag 1978. Sachs, Jeffrey D.: The end of poverty. New York: Penguin Books 2005. Schulz, Bettina: Tocheter Indira. Mnchen: Der Marion von Schrder Verlag 2003. Swientek, Christine: Adoptiert auf der Suche...: ...nach ihren Eltern und ihrer Identitt. Freiburg im Breisgau: Verlag Herder 1993. Thimm Karin: Schwarze in Deutschland. Mnchen: Piper Verlag 1973. Trietsch, Bettina: Deutschland ohne Rckfahrkarte. Zur Adoption von Kindern aus der Dritten Welt. Nachdruck. Main: P A Presse Kleinverlag 1988. Zuegg, Robert: Die Vermittlung auslndischer Adoptivkinder als Problem des prventiven Kinderschutzes. Zrich: Verlag Pro Juventute 1986.

Internet
Adoption Club House: URL: http://www.adoptionclubhouse.org/03_homework/02_history/04_worldwar.htm (consulted on September, 26, 2009) Adoption History: URL: http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~adoption/topics/adoptionhistbrief.htm (consulted on July 21, 2009) Bundesamt fr Justiz: URL: http://www.bj.admin.ch/bj/de/home/themen/gesellschaft/internationale_adoption.html (consulted on September 3, 2009) Duressa, Ayalew: Guddifaccha: Adoption practice in Oromo society with particular reference to the Borana Oromo. Thesis to the School of Graduate Studies Addis Ababa University. URL: http://etd.aau.edu.et/dspace/bitstream/123456789/1099/1/AYALEW%20DURESSA.pdf (consulted on July 2, 2009) Hague Convention of 29 May 1993 on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry Adoption Section. URL: http://www.hcch.net/index_en.php?act=text.display&tid=45 (consulted on August 10, 2009) Lacher, Gerold: Psychologische Aspekte der Eignungsabklrung von Adoptionsbewerbern. Diplomarbeit der Hochschule fr Angewandte Psychologie. URL: http://www.prokind.ch/download/Diplomarbeit.pdf (consulted on Mai 15, 2009).

SSI Service International Adoption. URL: http://www.ssiss.ch/index_e.htm. (consulted on September 3, 2009) UNICEF: Child protection information sheets. URL: http://www.unicef.org/protection/files/Child_Protection_Information_Sheets_(Booklet).pd f (consulted on August 10, 2009) UNICEF: UNICEF's position on Inter-country adoption. URL: http://www.unicef.org/media/media_41918.html (consulted on August 10, 2009)

Magazine
Kohlrusch, Eva. 2009 Es geht um Sehnsucht und um eine durchaus egoistische Freude. Schweizer Illustrierte 39, p. 27 (

10. Abstract
Objectives and scopes This thesis treats intercountry adoption having the objectiive to give the reader a substantial overview on the adoption procedure and consequences of adoption. As an introduction adoption in historical retrospect is presented. The main section of this thesis consists of three parts. How does the adoption process work in Switzerland What are the consequences of intercountry adoption Evaluation and analysis of specific responses to questions from adoptees Description of methods In order to get an accurate overview I have personally attended the first course of the adoption process. The entire process is explained with facts and figures in this paper. Later on the thesis treats tendencies and needs of adopted children. Freuds family romance theory, as well as the so-called adoption syndrome based on Betty Liftons statements play an important role in a life of an adoptee. They can therefore be referenced in this work. For getting an improved picture of the various stages adoptees go through, several questionnaires have been sent out and thereafter evaluated. The empirical studies based on the answers are restricted with my personal experience due to the relatively small sample size. Statement of main conclusions The procedure for adoption is long and enduring. In my eyes the legal requirements for perspective adopters should be reformed and actualized. Especially should years of concubine be considered equal to years of marriage. Furthermore the conclusion revealed that the identity problem has acute effect on adoptees. Children need supporting and understanding parents. It is important that the adoptive parents try to include certain aspects of the country of origin in their upbringing. It makes it easier for adoptees to develop a natural acceptance regarding their past.

11. Declaration
Ich achte das geistige Eigentum anderer Autoren und gebe ihre Leistung nicht als meine eigene aus. Ich kennzeichne deshalb klar, wo ich wrtlich zitiere, und weise auch darauf hin, wenn ich Erkenntnisse anderer umschreibe oder zusammenfasse. Damit ermgliche ich dem Leser, die Herkunft und Qualitt der von mir benutzten Information richtig einzuschtzen. Ich achte darauf, dass die Informationen, die ich von anderen bezogen habe, klar von meinen eigenen berlegungen und Folgerungen unterschieden werden knnen. Erst dadurch wird auch meine eigene Leistung richtig einschtzbar. Ich achte darauf, dass meine bibliographischen Angaben so genau sind, dass sie dem Leser das Auffinden der Quellen ermglichen. Auch die aus dem Internet bezogene wissenschaftliche Information belege ich klar nach Herkunft von Texten und Bildern mit entsprechenden InternetAdressen. Ich respektiere die Autorenrechte meiner Informationsquellen und halte mich an die geltenden gesetzlichen Regelungen. Erklrung Ich versichere, dass ich meine Maturittsarbeit unter Bercksichtigung der oben stehenden Regeln selbstndig verfasst habe.

Ort / Datum:

Unterschrift:

12. Appendix
12.1. Number of adoptions in Switzerland
Adoptionen

1980

1990

1995

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Adoptierte Kinder 0-4 Jahre 5-9 Jahre 10-14 Jahre 15-19 Jahre 20 Jahre und mehr Adoptivperson(en ) Ehepaar Stiefvater Stiefmutter Einzelperson Staatsangehrigk eit vor der Adoption Europa davon Schweiz Afrika Amerika davon: Brasilien Kolumbien Chile Peru Haiti Bolivien Asien davon: Indien Sri Lanka Thailand

1'583 387 465 345 230 156

1'198 420 365 209 115 89

1'030 324 294 205 112 95

808 283 233 161 83 48

685 273 180 97 82 53

702 279 193 107 75 48

815 433 219 83 51 29

854 397 179 136 86 56

647 261 124 102 104 56

656 279 104 108 102 63

582 229 89 105 91 68

575 223 95 105 98 54

684 793 49 57

616 543 22 17

527 464 20 19

488 289 16 15

482 177 13 13

506 163 17 16

670 122 2 21

588 215 20 31

371 244 5 27

371 259 3 23

314 248 4 16

304 255 6 10

1290 1060 21 102 4 48 1 19 4 5 168 37 4 13

681 525 43 257 73 59 37 23 14 4 216 110 23 26

533 365 60 277 114 67 11 15 14 6 156 67 6 24

388 198 79 192 51 60 9 2 9 2 148 68 2 26

304 142 69 158 36 54 7 1 6 2 153 61 2 47

326 144 81 161 36 60 3 4 8 3 132 42 2 41

302 93 127 163 32 66 1 4 9 0 223 80 1 64

381 196 105 151 22 73 1 2 7 3 217 51 3 82 0

292 195 124 105 15 36 0 6 8 2 124 25 4 63

310 201 112 97 18 34 1 10 10 2 131 36 2 60

264 188 109 81 7 29 2 5 12 4 124 37 2 53

262 192 136 74 15 23 1 8 4 1 100 16 1 45

Source: Bundesamt fr Statistik (BFS), Website Statistik Schweiz, http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/de/index/themen/01/06/blank/key/03.html (consulted on August 1, 2009)

12.2. Interview attachments

No changes or corrections were made on the answers given below.

Questionnaire I
Zur Person Geschlecht weiblich Geburtsdatum 10.11.1984 Dein Herkunftsland Srilanka Was fr eine Ausbildung hast du absolviert? Sozialagogin/ KV Welches Land fhlt sich als deine Heimat an? Schweiz Fhlst du dich als Schweizer/In oder eher als Auslnder/In? Als Schweizerin Sprichst du die Sprache deines Herkunftslandes? Nein Zur Adoption Mit wie vielen Jahren wurdest du adoptiert? 1Mt alt Empfindest du die Adoption, als Entwurzelung aus deinen ursprnglichen Familien- und Kulturverhltnissen? Ich fhle mich als Schweizerin, jedoch ist es seltsam wenn ich Leute aus meinem Herkunftsland treffe, weil ich dann merke, dass ich eigentlich eine andere Kultur htte. Es macht mich manchmal nachdenklich, jedoch bereue ich es nicht adoptiert zu sein. Gibt es deiner Ansicht nach einen idealen Zeitpunkt fr eine Adoption im Leben eines Kindes? Ich denke es ist besser ein Kind so jung wie mglich zu adoptieren, da das Risiko weniger besteht, dass das Kind Krankheiten oder psychische Probleme bekommt durch Ernhrung, zuwenig Krperkontakt, Hygiene ect. Denn die ersten Wochen und Monate, prgen den Menschen und haben Auswirkungen auf das ganze Leben. Auch muss sich ein Sugling oder Kleinkind, nicht in eine andere Kultur integrieren, da es nur die eine kennenlernt. Kennst du deine leiblichen Eltern oder deine leiblichen Geschwister? Nein Wenn nein, wrdest du deine leiblichen Eltern gerne kennen lernen oder mehr ber ihre Vergangenheit erfahren? Ich wrde Sie vielleicht gerne einmal sehen, nur um zu wissen ob ich hnlichkeiten habe. Jedoch habe ich ziemlich genaue Angaben meiner leiblichen Mutter, dennoch habe ich es bis jetzt noch nie versucht Sie ausfindig zu machen. Vielleicht aus Angst enttuscht zu werden. Kennst du die Grnde, weshalb du zur Adoption freigegeben wurdest? Nein Hast du dein Herkunftsland schon einmal besucht? Nein Siehst du deine Adoption als glckliches, rettendes oder eher schweres Schicksal? Beides: Ich bin froh in dem Wohlstand und dem Frieden der Schweiz zu sein. Ich sehe es als Ironie des Schicksals. Denn ich bin mir sicher, es gibt tausende von Kindern in Drittweltlndern die ein schlechtes leben fhren und sich wnschten adoptiert zu sein und in ein bessere Land gehen zu knnen. Der Nachteil, so empfinde ich, ist dass es schwieriger ist fr uns adoptierte unsere Identitt zu finden, da wir einfach nichts ber uns wissen. Erinnerst du dich wie und wann sie dir das Adoptivverhltnis erklrt haben? Nein keine Ahnung mehr, doch ich denke ich habe das wegen der unterschiedlichen Hautfarbe frh schon gemerkt und dann haben sie mir alles einmal erklrt. Zum Leben in der Schweiz Hast du Geschwister? Ja eine Schwester, auch adoptiert Was sind deine Kindheitserinnerungen in Bezug auf den sozialen Kontakt mit anderen Kindern und Erwachsenen? Viele Erwachsene fanden mich und meine Schwester sss als Kinder. Kinder fanden es interessant, dass ich adoptiert war. Ich kann mich nicht erinnern, dass ich wegen meines anderen Aussehens Probleme hatte. Wurdest du in der Schule ausgestossen oder gehnselt wegen deinem anderen Aussehen? Nein berhaupt nicht. In der Oberstufe, kamen manchmal blde Bemerkungen von Albandern und Jugoslawen, bezglich meiner Hautfarbe. Doch ansonsten erlebte ich mein anderes Aussehne allgemein als positiv. Wie ist die Beziehung zu deinen Adoptiveltern? Ich habe eine gute Beziehung zu meinen Eltern. Sie sind auch fr mich meine richtigen Eltern. Dennoch fehlt mir manchmal die Wiedererkennung in gewissen Dingen. Welchen Beruf ben deine Eltern aus? Mutter Handarbeitslehrerin, Vater Immobilienleiter

UBS

Questionnaire II
Zur Person Geschlecht f Geburtsdatum 25 Jahre alt Dein Herkunftsland Israel Was fr eine Ausbildung hast du absolviert? KV Angestellte Welches Land fhlt sich als deine Heimat an? Israel Fhlst du dich als Schweizer/In oder eher als Auslnder/In? Hier in der Schweiz bin ich ein anstndiger Schweizer Brger, gefhlsmssig, bin ich vollblut Israeli Sprichst du die Sprache deines Herkunftslandes? Leider spreche ich die Sprache noch nicht. Jedoch wenn ich in Israel bin kann ich mit nach 2 Tagen fliessend mit den Menschen unterhalten. Ich habe eine natrliche Begabung und Verstndnis fr die Sprache Hebrisch. Wie man so schn sagt: das wurde mir in die Wiege gelegt. Zur Adoption Mit wie vielen Jahren wurdest du adoptiert? Als Baby mit 8 Monaten Erinnerst du dich an das erste Treffen mit deinen Adoptiveltern? Nein, ich war zu klein War der Zeitpunkt geeignet, falls es einen solchen gibt? Es gibt einen geeigneten Zeitpunkt: NIE! Es wre besser es wrde nie soweit kommen! Empfindest du die Adoption, als Entwurzelung aus deinen ursprnglichen Familien- und Kulturverhltnissen? Ich wurde aus meiner Kultur gerissen, Familie hatte ich in Israel wohl nie. Gibt es deiner Ansicht nach einen idealen Zeitpunkt fr eine Adoption im Leben eines Kindes? Es gibt einen geeigneten Zeitpunkt: NIE! Es wre besser es wrde nie soweit kommen! Wrdest du deine leiblichen Eltern gerne kennen lernen oder mehr ber ihre Vergangenheit erfahren? Nein will ich nicht! Ist mir egal, da ich weiss, dass es fr mich genau eine einzige Entschuldigung gibt, warum man mich auf diese Weise htte loswerden mssen: falls meine Erzeugerin vergewaltigt wurde, diese Wahrscheinlichkeit ist so gering, dass es sich nicht einmal lohnt darber nachzudenken. Also nein, wir haben uns nichts zu sagen. Die Erzeuger drfen mir gerne 1.5 Millionen Schweizer Franken bezahlen die ich dann mit einen grossen Dankeschn meinem Adoptivmami berreichen wrde! Kennst du die Grnde, weshalb du zur Adoption freigegeben wurdest? Hast du dein Herkunftsland schon einmal besucht? Mehrmals, ich gehe wenn es finanziell mglich ist jedes Jahr nach Israel seit ich 15 Jahre alt bin, also seit 10 Jahren Gehen sie offen und transparent mit dem Thema Adoption um? Schwierige Frage kann ich so nicht beantworten Erinnerst du dich wie und wann sie dir das Adoptivverhltnis erklrt haben? Ja von Mami Zum Leben in der Schweiz Hast du Geschwister? Ich habe 2 Schwestern, eine von Chile Adoptiert und eine von Deutschland adoptiert Was sind deine Kindheitserinnerungen in Bezug auf den sozialen Kontakt mit anderen Kindern und Erwachsenen? Ich hatte immer super soziale Kontakte, war schon immer sehr aufgeschlossen und kontaktfreudig. Wurdest du in der Schule ausgestossen oder gehnselt wegen deinem anderen Aussehen? Aber natrlich: ICH WAR JA NICHT NUR ISRAELI, DAMIT VERBUNDEN JDISCH, ZUDEM HABE ICH NOCH BRAUNE HAUT UND BIN NUR 1.50 CM GROSS: Ich kenne kaum jemanden, der mehr Klischees erfllte als ich in der Kindheit Hattest du die Mglichkeit dich bei deinen Eltern, Freunden oder einer Frsorgestelle auszusprechen oder Rat zu holen? Bei Mami und Freunden Wie ist die Beziehung zu deinen Adoptiveltern? Zu Mami sehr gut, zu meinem Adoptivater, habe ich ein gestrtes Verhltnis oder besser gesagt gar keines. Zum Fragebogen Wurden wichtige Aspekte ausgelassen? Weitere Inputs? Ja: die Frage was fr Probleme hast du weil du adoptiert bist? sprich die Identifikations-Probleme die man als

Adoptionskind unvermeidlich hat! Und bist du wtend auf deine Adoptiveltern oder gar Erzeuger? Ja ich bin stinksauer auf meine Erzeuger, die wollen mich nicht kennen lernen, dann wrden die eine bse berraschung erleben!

Questionaire III
Zur Person Geschlecht m Alter 27 Herkunftsland Nigeria Was fr eine Ausbildung hast du absolviert? Vorarbeiter auf dem Bau Welches Land fhlt sich als deine Heimat an? Schweiz Fhlst du dich als Schweizer oder eher als Auslnder/In? Schweizer Sprichst du die Sprache deines Herkunftslandes? Nein Zur Adoption Mit wie vielen Jahren wurdest du adoptiert? 7 Monaten Erinnerst du dich an das erste Treffen mit deinen Adoptiveltern? Nein War der Zeitpunkt geeignet, falls es einen solchen gibt? Ja Wurdest du aus deinen Familienverhltnissen rausgerissen? Weiss ich nicht mehr Gibt es deiner Ansicht nach einen idealen Zeitpunkt fr die Adoption im Leben eines Kindes? So klein als mglich, denn so ist die Verbindung zu den leiblichen Eltern noch nicht so gross Kennst du deine leiblichen Eltern? Nein. Deine Geschwister? Nein Falls nicht, wrdest du deine leiblichen Eltern gerne kennen lernen oder mehr ber ihre Vergangenheit wissen? Nein, denn meine Adoptiveltern haben diese Position sehr gut eingenommen. Kennst du die Grnde, weshalb du zur Adoption frei gegeben wurdest? Nein Hast du dein Herkunftsland schon einmal besucht? Ja Siehst du deine Adoption als glckliches oder eher schweres Schicksal? Ich hatte Glck Gibt dir deine Adoptivfamilie sprbaren Rckhalt? Ja Zum Leben in der Schweiz Hast du Geschwister? Ja, eine Schwester Wurdest du in der Schule ausgestossen oder gehnselt wegen deinem anderen Aussehen? Nein Hattest du die Mglichkeit dich auszusprechen bei deinen Eltern, Freunden oder einer Frsorge? Bei meinen Eltern Wie ist die Beziehung zu deinen Adoptiveltern? Super

Questionaire IV
Zur Person Geschlecht f Geburtsdatum 27.04.1983 Herkunftsland Indien Was fr eine Ausbildung hast du absolviert? Kauffrau Welches Land fhlt sich als deine Heimat an? Schweiz Fhlst du dich als Schweizer oder eher als Auslnder/In? Als Schweizerin Sprichst du die Sprache deines Herkunftslandes? Nein

Zur Adoption Mit wie vielen Jahren wurdest du adoptiert? Mit 6 Monaten Erinnerst du dich an das erste Treffen mit deinen Adoptiveltern? Nein War der Zeitpunkt geeignet, falls es einen solchen gibt? Ja Wurdest du aus deinen Familienverhltnissen rausgerissen? Nein, ich kann mich jedenfalls nicht daran erinnerin Gibt es deiner Ansicht nach einen idealen Zeitpunkt fr die Adoption im Leben eines Kindes? Nein, es kommt ganz auf die Situation und die Umstnde jedes einzelnen Kindes an. Kennst du deine leiblichen Eltern? Nein. Falls nicht, wrdest du deine leiblichen Eltern gerne kennen lernen oder mehr ber ihre Vergangenheit wissen? Ja, sehr gerne Kennst du die Grnde, weshalb du zur Adoption frei gegeben wurdest? Nein, leider nicht Hast du dein Herkunftsland schon einmal besucht? Nein, mchte ich aber auf jeden Fall noch tun Siehst du deine Adoption als glckliches oder eher schweres Schicksal? Weder das eine noch das andere Gibt dir deine Adoptivfamilie sprbaren Rckhalt? Ja, wenn ich es brauche Zum Leben in der Schweiz Hast du Geschwister? Ja, eine Schwester und einen Burder Wurdest du in der Schule ausgestossen oder gehnselt wegen deinem anderen Aussehen? Nein Hattest du die Mglichkeit dich auszusprechen bei deinen Eltern, Freunden oder einer Frsorge? Ich htte bestimmt die Mglichkeit gehabt Wie ist die Beziehung zu deinen Adoptiveltern? Wir haben eine normal Eltern-TochterBeziehung (kein schlechtes, aber auch kein besonders gutes Verhltnis) Welche Berufe ben deine Eltern aus? Mein Vater war Professor und meine Mutter Hausfrau Inputs? Ich denke adoptierte Personen, die ihre leiblichen Eltern nicht kennen, werden sich oft ihr ganzes Leben lang Fragen ber ihre wahre Identitt stellten. (oft)

12.3. International Adoption Procedure WITH the Hague Convention

12.4. International Adoption Procedure WITHOUT the Hague Convention