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The way we talk about adoption has evolved over time as we become more aware of the complexities of our relationships and the way children and adults react to words, nuances, and connotations. Resources for present and future parents, families, teachers.
[ Glossaries/Definitions ] [ Language Guidelines ] [ Articles ]Glossary of TermsLanguage Guidelines
Definitions of words and terms used in connection with adoption and foster care, and adoptive and foster families.
Disabilities Definitions
From the National Adoption Center, definitions of risk factors and physical, emotional, behavioral, and learning disabilities.
Glossary of Adoption Terminology
From AdoptNet.
Glossary of Terms
From the California Association of Adoption Agencies.
Helpful Adoption Terms to Know
From the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse
A Journalist's Guide to AdoptionGeneral Articles
This web-based resource, for journalists by journalists, is intended to build awareness of language nuances, issues, and the manner in which adoption is presented through the media.
Suggested Adoption Language for Stylebooks
A proposal for changes in adoption references used in the media.
Adoption Language
From Presbyterian Pro-Life (pro-life information site)
Adoption-Speak
From The Center for Adoptee Rights (activism and advocacy reference site)
Positive Adoption Language
From Holt International (adoption agency)
Positive Adoption Language
In 1989, attorney Marc Widelock prepared this list of words, perhaps one of the most-reproduced when talking about adoption language.
Purely American: Laws, Lies and Love
From Dr. G. William Troxler (President, Capitol College, MD)
Respectful Adoption Language
From Perspectives Press (adoption and infertility publisher)
Unwanted Adoption Language
From the Adoptive Families Association of British Columbia (adoption information site)
Using Positive Language in Adoption
From Crouse Cobb & Bays (attorney site)
Words Do Matter
From Older Child Adoption Online Magazine
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