Adoption and problem behaviours - A psychological formulation from three cases

Abstract

Adoptees have been found to demonstrate more behavioural issues than biological children. Initial research considered adoption in itself to be a risk factor. However, recent research disputes this assumption and is geared towards examining factors and processes contributing to psychological issues in adoptees. In this regard, this paper proposes a psychological formulation linking being adopted to demonstrated problem behaviours; based on case reports of three adolescents. Introducing the concept of ‘good-fit parenting’, the formulation proposes that problem behaviours in adoptees are mediated by an insecure attachment style; with contributions from parenting behaviours and adoptee's stage of development. This formulation enhances the scope of mental health service provision and research in adoption. Keywords:  Adoption, problem behaviour, psychosocial formulation