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Permanent URI for this communityhttps://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/294

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Subject: search.filters.subject.Adoption, New Zealand

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    Search and reunion : the experiences of New Zealand adult adoptees : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in psychology at Massey University
    (Massey University, 1994) Alexander, Sylvia Anne
    This thesis concerns the experiences of adult adoptees in New Zealand who have instigated a search for and established contact with members of their birth families. A qualitative research method, specifically that of grounded theory, was used for the collection and analysis of data. Data was gathered through in depth interviews and a study of the existing literature on search and adoption reunions. The present study focuses on the reasons for and expectations regarding searching and the psychological process involved for adult adoptees who have searched and contacted members of their birth families. The findings of the present study indicate that adult adoptee's search for their birth families in response to a life long need for personal identity. The actual psychological process of search can be seen as a series of stages, incorporating elements of adventure, cure and growth. Over time, the nature of the relationships established with birth relatives undergo changes and become less intense. Regardless of the current relationship with birth relatives, all the adoptees found that the process of search and reunion was beneficial and increased their sense of identity.
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    The process of an intercountry adoption : the role of the women within the couples involved : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Social Work at Massey University
    (Massey University, 2001) Wilson, Catherine Marie
    This thesis studies the experiences of ten married couples in New Zealand, in particular the women, who have completed the process of adopting a child or children from overseas. It has two main objectives: first to highlight the role of the woman within a married couple applying to adopt intercountry; and second, to note any gender differences in the experience and perception of this process and the issues involved. The research design for this study followed the approach of eidetic phenomenology which focuses on the perceptions and meanings that people use to interpret their own experiences. Data were collected using in-depth, audiotaped personal interviews with the participants, and detailed case notes made during the interview. Personal observations after each interview were also used. The data were analysed using content analysis with cross-case groupings of responses into themes. The findings indicate that women are the main instigators and organisers in the process of achieving an intercountry adoption. Within this role the women often felt unsupported by both professionals and organisations involved. The findings also indicate areas for further research and review for professional practice and policy, in order to provide more effective and supportive assistance throughout the process of adopting a child or children from overseas.