Attachment state of mind and trauma in mother and baby home adoptees

This study has two aims: to explore the experiences and impact of adoption among five adults (three males females, all over age 55) adopted from mother baby homes in UK Ireland, establish each participant’s state mind (SOM) with regards attachment using Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) (George, Kaplan Main, 1985–1996). It makes use information gained AAI by analysing interview transcripts ways: (1) scoring system ( Goldwyn Hesse, 2003 ) assess SOM; (2) thematic analysis produce an inductive set themes. was found that participants had insecure SOM attachment. For four out participants, this unresolved/disorganised, category ‘preoccupied’ most prevalent underlying three-way classification. Qualitative identified overarching themes: identity belonging; trauma; (3) ‘silenced’ coping; (4) adverse parenting which reflected their adoption. The findings indicate were highly susceptible trauma associated loss. They also highlight importance suitable placements vetting potential adopters. clinical research implications results contribution broader discussion related are discussed.