Knowing me, knowing you : a study of relationships between adopted children and their grandparents

The way in which relationships develop between adopted
children and their 'new' grandparents is a matter of great
interest to adoptive families and those working with them.
However, it has received little attention in the academic or
clinical literature. This study seeks to explore this aspect of
family life.
At the heart of the study is a set of qualitative interviews with
six adoptive families. All three generations were involved. The
interviews were analysed using two approaches: Interpretative
Phenomenological Analysis, and an approach viewing the
respondent as a 'defended psychosocial subject'.
From the findings, which are presented using the case study
method, there emerges a picture of grandparents as being of
great significance within the adoptive families. Their attitude
towards adoption, and towards the adopted children, appears as
especially significant. Adoption involves three generations.
This study then develops a theoretical understanding of the
findings. The grandparent is a "witness" to the adopter as a
parent. Developmental processes, such as the child's gradual
separation from the mother, are worked out differently within
adoptive families, and this takes place within the 'family field'.
The study concludes with recommendations for practice and
policy.
This study will be of relevance, not only to members of adoptive
families and those working with them, but also to those
involved with other family forms, such as step-families and
foster families.

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