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The study is an opportunity for adoptive families to explore their own strengths and weaknesses, the realities and expectations of adoption, and parenting capabilities. During the study, the social worker and family also discuss issues such as open adoption, relationships with an adopted persons' birth family and the applicants feelings about children with special needs. The home study is a tool which helps to prepare families for adoption.
Upon approval, the home study document is written as a means to introduce other social workers about the adoptive applicant. The study is used as a tool to match waiting children with families. On average, the home study process takes approximately 6 months to complete. The family is then listed on the Minnesota Adoption Exchange and referrals are made based on the preferences of the family and the availability of children. The study must be approved annually to be valid.
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An adoption home
study is both a process and a document. During the adoption study, a
social worker meets with the prospective adoptive family to discuss a
wide range of topics and collect a great deal of information. In
Minnesota, the adoption study is required to include information about
the family, home, neighborhood, community, resources, supports, and well
as health, finances, faith, and background checks.