APS Developing Forced Adoptions Training resources to help treatment of victims
Tomorrow (March 30) marks the official opening of the National Archive’s Forced Adoptions History Project, which follows the second anniversary of the National Apology for Forced Adoptions on 21 March, first made in 2013.
The Australian Psychological Society (APS) acknowledges the significance of the apology as a key way of helping people affected to recover. The total number of adoptions (both forced and voluntary) since 1940 is estimated to have been as high as 250,000, with the highest number taking place between 1950 and 1970.
Forced adoption can have significant and long-term psychological effects on those affected, including higher rates of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and thoughts of suicide, with many people also experiencing difficulties with identity, interpersonal relationships, grief and loss.
These effects can also be experienced by mothers, fathers, adopted persons, adoptive parents, siblings and extended family as well as by subsequent generations.
The APS recognises the importance of the apology from a psychological perspective as a way of validating the experience of people affected and to acknowledge the damaging effects of forced adoption and to recover. Many people continue to require professional support to manage the ongoing effects and improve their coping, mental health and wellbeing.
The APS is pleased to announce that it has recently been contracted by the Commonwealth Department of Health to develop national training and resources on forced adoptions for mental health professionals, to assist them in the delivery of appropriate services to people affected by past forced adoption policies and practices.
This project aims to ensure health professionals have a better understanding of the impact of past adoption practices.
The apology’s anniversary and the National Archive’s history project will help maintain public awareness about forced adoptions and provide a voice for those affected.
The APS has now commenced national consultation with stakeholder organisations as part of its contract and has already received positive feedback. The APS will continue to publish updates on key milestones for this important project.
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on Twitter: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 27,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.