Adoption in Educational Settings: Theory, Research, and Practice

Adoption is an important yet often overlooked dimension of family diversity within educational research and practice. Although adoption-related experiences have been extensively examined in fields such as psychology, social work, and child welfare, their impact on educational outcomes, identity development, social belonging, academic achievement, and emotional well-being has received far less attention. Schools play a critical role in shaping the experiences of adopted children, influencing their sense of inclusion, identity, and success. However, adoption-sensitive perspectives remain largely absent from teacher preparation, curriculum development, and educational policy. Bridging this gap is essential for creating inclusive learning environments that recognize and support the unique experiences, strengths, and needs of adopted students and their families. Adoption in Educational Settings: Theory, Research, and Practice positions adoption as a distinct and meaningful dimension of diversity within education and establishes it as an emerging field of scholarly inquiry. The book connects adoption to key educational concepts and introduces adoption-sensitive perspectives into educational theory, policy, and practice. Challenging deficit-based narratives, it emphasizes strengths-based approaches that promote inclusion and student success. Covering topics such as adopted children with special needs, affective adjustment, and sensory regulation, this book serves as a valuable resource for graduate and doctoral students, student support professionals, school psychologists, K-12 educators, educational administrators, child welfare professionals, social workers, educational psychologists, and researchers committed to advancing inclusive education.