Q: I haven’t spoken with anyone in my immediate family in over a year. Due to a family situation, breaking off contact was the best option at the time, but I’m worried that my lack of a relationship with any family members will negatively affect our impending home study report. Should I be concerned about this?
A: The home study is a document describing you and your family; it isn’t meant to judge you, your family members, or the decisions you have made. I recommend being truthful. The social worker will probably want to know how you arrived at the decision to cut off contact with your family, and will make sure you have considered the options and their possible impacts on your immediate family. You should think of the social worker as a resource in examining your decision. These aspects of your life should in no way interfere with your adopting a child.
