Hearing Young Voices: Methodological approaches to studying intercountry adoptees (Ages 0–12) in Ireland
Background: The incorporation of the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption into Irish law via the Adoption Act 2010 significantly altered the demographic and geographic profile of sending countries. Despite these structural shifts, empirical research evaluating the post-2010 landscape remains severely limited; previous research exploring Irish international adoption outcomes dates back prior to these statutory modifications (Greene, 2007).
Commissioned and funded by the Adoption Authority of Ireland, this interdisciplinary and inter-institutional study addresses this critical gap. The investigation explored the lived experiences and views of children and young people aged 0–12 years who were adopted into Ireland under the updated legislative framework.
Method/approach: Using Articles 12 and 13 of the Convention on the Rights of a Child as a guiding framework, creative methods were used to elicit the views of children and young people aged between 0-12 years of age. These encompassed a myriad of forms of expression which were adapted to the needs of the individual children concerned. For example, a modified version of photovoice (for example the use of personal artefacts) was used for some children. Other forms of expression, such as art and play proved more beneficial for some children based on their individual needs and choice of engagement. An observation tool was used to gain insights from children aged 0-2 years. The research team successfully applied to two research ethics committees to undertake this study.
Results/findings: Since the final report is currently being finalized for publication, this presentation offers a preliminary analysis of the data. Initial findings indicate that the lived experiences of these children and young people are largely positive and largely supported by their adoptive parents. Additionally, the study demonstrates the methodological viability and efficacy of the Mosaic approach for meaningfully engaging intercountry adopted children across a diverse developmental age span while offering critical reflections on the research process.
Conclusion: This study is the first of its kind in Ireland examining the support needs of children (aged 0–12 years) and demonstrates that children adopted internationally since 2010 (Hague Convention ratification) and their families have significant support needs, before, during, and after intercountry adoption.
Implications for children and families: The qualitative aspect of this study will provide rich insights into children’s experiences of the intercountry adoption process in light of existing literature. Recommendations concerning the needs of families who have adopted children from abroad will be made based on best practices from elsewhere.
Implications for practitioners: The support needs of children and families before, during, and after the intercountry adoption process in Ireland are highlighted and discussed. Recommendations are made concerning how these supports can be strengthened within the Irish context.
Funding: The Adoption Authority of Ireland commissioned and funded this study.
Keywords: voices of children 0–12, interdisciplinary, intercountry adoption, lived experiences, Ireland, creative methodologies
This presentation relates to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions