I did not belong: the grief and identity development of fostered and adopted American Indian individuals

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of grief and identity development of American Indian individuals following foster care and adoption compared to their non-American Indian White counterparts. Secondary data analysis was utilized to explore differences in grief and identity development among formerly fostered and adopted American Indian (n = 129) and White (n = 166) individuals. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses suggested a significant relationship between race and grief. More American Indian participants reported experiencing grief because of their time in foster care or adoption than did non-American Indian White participants. The relationship between race and level of impact of adoption on identity development was statistically significant in both a t test and ordinary least squares regression. American Indian participants’ identity was more significantly impacted by adoption than their White peers. Findings suggest a need for attention to the unique grief experiences and identity development of adopted and fostered American Indian individuals.