The role of birth country/heritage interest in adult international adoptees’ wellbeing: Evidence from the English and Romanian adoptees study

This article explores the stability and impact of birth country and heritage interest among international adoptees from adolescence to adulthood, using data from the English and Romanian Adoptees (ERA) study. While adolescence is often seen as key for ethnic identity development, adulthood may also offer opportunities for reflection and integration. We examined interest in Romania at ages 15 and 23, and its links to earlier neurodevelopmental difficulties, behavioural engagement (e.g., visiting Romania, contact with biological relatives), and adult wellbeing. Four main findings emerged: first, interest in Romania was generally stable – 49% showed persistently low interest, 11% persistently high, 23% increased, and 17% decreased; second, higher interest was linked to visiting Romania and contact with biological relatives, especially mothers and siblings; third, greater interest was associated with fewer childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, but not with other deprivation-related issues or institutional deprivation duration; and fourth, higher interest was associated with fewer emotional problems in adulthood, though not differences in self-esteem or functional outcomes. These findings suggest heritage interest may support mental health in adulthood for some adoptees. Adoption support should encourage heritage engagement and tailor interventions to individual neurodevelopmental profiles, promoting identity exploration across the lifespan.