What is the influence of familism on perceptions of kinship adoption? Previous studies have found that the attachment as experienced in kinship care is higher than in other forms of care. There are limited studies that focus on a comprehensive understanding of the experience of kinship care. The present exploratory study focused on the influence that familism has on attitudes, values, and beliefs of kinship adoption. Participants from a South Texas university were asked to fill out an online questionnaire covering demographics and perceptions of familism and kinship adoption. The study had a N = 50 convenience sample and analyzed data through a convergent design using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The goal of the study was to explore the perceptions of familism on kinship adoption from which a more in-depth study can be initiated in the future. Results demonstrated medium levels of familism across participants and low awareness of kinship adoption. Participants placed less importance on biological relationships during the raising of a child. In the qualitative portion of the study, n = 34 participants stated that regardless of adoption being kinship or non-kinship it is the parents’ responsibility to be committed to the child’s overall well-being.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Robert Villa 

Department of Clinical Health Sciences