A Content Analysis of Adoption Articles in Counseling Journals: A 30-Year Review

Abstract

This rigorous content analysis offers a systematic review of adoption research in counseling from 1988 to 2017. A total of 45 (N = 45) articles on adoption across 13 counseling journals, 20 of which were published in The Family Journal, were analyzed. Results of the study revealed patterns in methodological orientations, target group, content areas, and journal and publication trends. Despite an overall increase in publications on adoption 1988–2017, this content analysis manifested a lack of empirical research on adoption within the context of counseling. Themes related to adoption and counseling practice were identified. Implications for family counselors/clinicians and research were discussed.