The Perfect Fit

933 Words2 Pages

Open adoption came into widespread practice in 1982 when the Independent Adoption Center opened its doors in California. However, it was extremely controversial, with several adoption professionals refusing to even share a panel stage with speakers on open adoption. (Independent Adoption Center) In April of the same year, Robert Borgman wrote an article titled “The Consequences of Open and Closed Adoption for Older Children”. As the title suggests, Borgman discusses the consequences of open and closed adoption for older children but he argues that open adoption is a more practical choice for children. Four years later, Patrick A. Curtis writes an article titled “ The Dialectics of Open Versus Closed Adoption of Infants.” Curtis discusses closed and open adoption as it pertains to the adoptive and biological parents and the children. Both writers present a strong case but Borgman wrote his article stronger because of his approach and his supporting evidence.
In Richard Borgman claims that open adoption is a more realistic approach for older children because children have a need for continuity. His argument is that open adoption permits room for another support system. Older children have established relationships and friendships. Even though he is arguing for open adoption, he does not destroy the other side. He actually adheres slightly to the idea of closed adoption being a decent fit for the children. He writes “severance of all cords with past may also be possible for a few older children…”
His argument is strong. He provides expert opinions for both sides. He gives statistics and quotes studies that have been conducted. Borgman introduces closed introduction first. Then, he presents his case for open adoption. He supports hi...

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...tis has many ideas with supporting details, his ideas did not help support his thesis. Borgman discusses both sides. Then, he gracefully refutes the opposition by saying it is a possibility. Consequently, he knocks the logic of closed adoption by proving that open adoption is a suitable choice. Patrick A. Curtis has an organized and informative article. His article shows that he thoroughly researched closed and open adoption. However, Robert Borgman’s article presents a clearer argument.

Works Cited

"Ask Your Questions." When Did Open Adoption Start? Independent Adoption Center, n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2014.
Borgman, Robert. "The Consequences of Open and Closed Adoption For Older Children." Child Welfare Journal 61.4 (1982): 217-27. Print.
Curtis, Patrick A. "The Dialectics of Open Versus Closed Adoption of Infants." Child Welfare Journal 62.5 (1986): 437-46. Print.

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