Handbook on the Clinical Treatment of Adopted Adolescents and Young Adults

This handbook explores the clinical practice of working with adopted people in adolescence and early adulthood, addressing the external and internal factors that contribute to their developmental complexities. It provides specific protocols and frameworks for assessment and treatment and calls for broad systemic change to better understand the psychology of being adopted.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection brings together the insights of international scholars and adopted individuals, fostering a collaborative exchange of knowledge regarding clinical practices with adopted individuals in adolescence and early adulthood. As nations embark on adoption reform initiatives, this handbook emerges as a pioneering resource, delving into both the external factors contributing to their developmental complexities and the profound internal meanings associated with being adopted as children transition into adolescence and adulthood. It sheds light on the unique characteristics of adopted clients, highlighting their distinct experiences from those not adopted. Moreover, it underscores the critical need for clinical research focused on adopted individuals in this older age group, recognizing their distinct needs and experiences. By exploring how clinicians can effectively understand their clients' clinical requirements, the handbook provides practical protocols and frameworks for assessment and necessary adaptations in language and treatment. With a foreword by renowned expert Miriam Steele, the chapters delve into the legal and sociopolitical cultures, policies, and practices that shape adoption, advocating for sweeping systemic changes. Drawing from a diverse range of theoretical, conceptual, and global perspectives, this handbook is designed for clinicians across all disciplines, at various stages of practice, administration, and training. It serves as a valuable guide, highlighting the pivotal roles they can play in expanding and refining our understanding of the psychology of being adopted, ultimately fostering greater empathy, support, and well-being for individuals and families impacted by adoption.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367555382