Drs. Sampson Davis, George Jenkins, and Rameck Hunt discovered early in their friendship that they shared a disturbing trait: As children, they navigated dangerous inner-city life without a father's guidance. They escaped deilinquency and crime to form the Pact, dedicated to putting themselves on the road to success. Now, the Three Doctors make a new promise: to set aside their resentment, find their fathers, and rebuild relationships with men they barely recognize. Told in voices alternating between father and son, The Bond explores the hard lessons of growing up without a father, and…
The adoptive father contributes to the development of his adopted child by supporting the adoptive mother as she cares for the child, by promoting attachments within the family, and by helping the child understand the circumstances of the adoption and his or her relationship with the biological parents. This chapter reviews cultural attitudes about the purpose of adoption and the father's role throughout history. The discussion contrasts ancient and cultural attitudes about adoption as a method for achieving status with contemporary perceptions of adoption as a response to the needs and wants…
Thirty men were interviewed for this study about the feelings and motivations of birth fathers who release their children for adoption. Their narratives are synthesized in chapters that address each phase of pre- and post-adoption life, from learning about the pregnancy to short- and long-term effects. Ten of the men searched or had contact with their birth children after their adoption. The text challenges traditional beliefs regarding the impact of adoption on birth fathers and represents the first reference that examines the experiences of men who give up their children. The men reported…
Written for prospective and practicing adoptive fathers, this book describes the role of men in the adoptive family. The discussion examines the experience of adoption specifically in Great Britain, with some references to the United States and other countries. Topics include the father's perspective of adoption as a life decision and the process of adoption, from preparation to matching and placement. Post-adoption experiences also are explored. The book highlights suggestions from adoptive fathers for fathers and adoption workers. Resources for support are listed at the end of the book. 21…
