Dec 16, 2024
"I use the language of supply and demand because this is a market-based system and it's uncomfortable for a lot of people, right? Because you're talking about a supply and demand of human beings." -- Gretchen Sisson
Read the transcript here: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01JESZ6VPKJMRTMRHX6ZMBHDB7
EPISODE SUMMARY:
In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Gretchen Sisson, the author of the acclaimed book Relinquished: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood. Gretchen's work stems from a decade-long qualitative sociological study that delves into the experiences of relinquishing mothers and critiques the American adoption system.
We discussed her journey into this research, which began while she was working with pregnant and parenting young people in Boston. Gretchen highlighted the stigmatization of young motherhood and the disconnect between societal narratives and the lived experiences of these women. Her research emphasizes the complexities of adoption, particularly how it intersects with issues of reproductive health and justice.
Gretchen shared insights from her book, revealing that the majority of women who are denied access to abortion end up parenting their children, with only a small percentage choosing adoption. This led to a discussion about the implications of the recent Dobbs decision and its potential impact on adoption rates, as well as the troubling commodification of children within the adoption system.
Throughout our conversation, we explored the reactions to her book from both the adoption community and the broader public. While many adoptees have resonated with her work, some adoptive parents have expressed defensiveness. We emphasized the importance of listening to adoptees and understanding the systemic issues surrounding adoption.
Gretchen also touched on the need for better support systems for both adoptive parents and adoptees, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of family structures and the complexities of parenting. We concluded with a call to action for listeners to engage with the voices of adoptees and to consider the broader implications of adoption in our society.
I encourage everyone to check out Gretchen's book, available in various formats, and to connect with her on social media. Thank you for joining us in this important conversation about adoption and its many layers.
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RESOURCES:
Gretchen’s information:
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Pick up Gretchen’s amazing book Relinquished: https://www.amazon.com/Relinquished-Politics-Adoption-Privilege-Motherhood/dp/1250286778
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Find Gretchen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gretchen.sisson/
Other book mentioned in this episode:
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The Primal Wound by Nancy Verrier: https://www.amazon.com/Primal-Wound-Understanding-Adopted-Child/dp/0963648004
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Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson
Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao
Email questions or comments to Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com
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TIME STAMPS:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption
00:00:44 - Introducing Gretchen Sisson
00:01:41 - Gretchen's Research Journey
00:02:53 - Understanding Sociology
00:04:10 - Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research
00:05:36 - Impactful Stories in Adoption
00:06:40 - Response to Gretchen's Book
00:07:53 - Abortion and Adoption Dynamics
00:09:03 - Post-Dobbs Adoption Trends
00:10:55 - The Supply and Demand of Adoption
00:12:49 - Financial Aspects of Adoption
00:13:28 - Redirecting Adoption Funds
00:14:55 - Birth Mothers' Financial Needs
00:16:15 - Adoptee Perspectives on Adoption
00:17:37 - Adoptive Parents' Reactions
00:19:53 - Complexities of Adoption
00:22:06 - Supporting Adoptive Families
00:23:39 - Infertility and Adoption
00:25:23 - Broader Perspectives on Parenthood
00:27:39 - Listening to Adoptees
00:29:35 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways
00:31:09 - Where to Find Gretchen's Work
00:31:49 - Upcoming Events from Unraveling Adoption
00:33:05 - Closing Remarks