Adoption has emerged as an important pathway for family formation and child welfare in India; however, it continues to be shaped by deeply embedded socio-cultural norms privileging biological parenthood. While policy frameworks have increasingly focused on child protection and legal processes, limited attention has been given to the lived experiences of adoptive parents, particularly in localized contexts. This study examines the social and emotional challenges faced by adoptive parents in Vadodara district, Gujarat. Using a mixed-method design, data were collected from 25 legally adoptive parents through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The analysis combines descriptive statistics with thematic interpretation to capture both patterns and lived experiences. Findings indicate that adoptive parenting is characterized by a dual reality of emotional fulfilment and social negotiation. While most parents reported strong bonding and positive parenting practices, a significant proportion experienced early-stage emotional stress, anxiety regarding parental competence, and persistent exposure to social stigma. Cultural norms privileging biological ties were found to shape societal responses, often leading to intrusive questioning, differential treatment, and pressures around disclosure. At the same time, family support and awareness of adoption processes emerged as critical factors enabling resilience and positive adjustment. The study highlights the need for strengthening pre- and post-adoption counselling, expanding community-level awareness, and institutionalizing support systems for adoptive families. By foregrounding parental experiences, this research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of adoption beyond legal frameworks and underscores the role of social work in addressing the socio-emotional dimensions of adoptive parenting.
Fernandes et al. (Sun,) studied this question.