Adopted teenagers navigate the world of romance and relationships in much the same way as their non-adopted peers, according to new research published recently. The study, highlighted by PsyPost, challenges longstanding assumptions about adoption and adolescent adjustment, offering reassurance to families and educators in Thailand and around the world.
This finding is of particular significance in Thailand, where societal attitudes towards adoption have slowly shifted but misconceptions persist. Parents and educators often worry that adopted youths may struggle emotionally or socially in ways that their non-adopted counterparts do not—especially in areas as complex as teenage love, dating, and intimacy.
The study examined the dating experiences, attitudes toward love, and relationship behaviors among both adopted and non-adopted adolescents. Researchers found no significant differences between the two groups regarding how they approach or manage romantic relationships. The results suggest that being adopted does not inherently alter a young person’s capacity to form healthy romantic attachments or experience typical teenage emotions. “Our research indicates that adopted adolescents generally have dating experiences and relationship skills comparable to non-adopted teens,” the study’s lead researcher noted, as referenced by PsyPost. Such evidence underscores the resilience and adaptability of adopted teens.
In Thailand, where the number of formal adoptions remains relatively low compared to other countries (UNICEF Thailand data), this research could help challenge lingering biases that may lead to overprotection, stigma, or low expectations for adopted youths. Cultural beliefs in Thailand often emphasize biological ties, leading to perceptions that adopted children may feel less secure, have more behavioral difficulties, or struggle with intimacy and trust as teenagers. This new data suggests that these concerns are likely overstated, at least in terms of romantic development during adolescence.
Expert voices in child psychology and social work have emphasized for years that stable, supportive environments are the greatest predictors of healthy adolescent development—regardless of biological origin. This study’s findings add an important layer of evidence, supporting the notion that family environment and parenting quality play far larger roles than adoption status in shaping teens’ confidence, relationship-building skills, and emotional well-being. “It’s essential that we update our assumptions about adopted youths and focus more on supporting healthy relationships at home and at school,” noted a spokesperson for the Association of Thai Adoption Professionals.
Thailand’s educational and mental health sectors frequently encounter adopted students, especially in urban areas. Understanding that adopted teenagers are typically just as capable of forming positive romantic relationships can help reduce stigma, foster inclusion in classrooms, and allow counselors to focus on support strategies appropriate for all students, not just those who were adopted.
Historically, adoption has carried a degree of social stigma in several Thai communities, particularly in rural provinces. Stories of adopted children being ostracized or misunderstood by peers have occasionally surfaced in the local press, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. This study’s findings, if shared widely and combined with culturally sensitive education campaigns, could empower Thai families who choose to adopt by reminding them—and their communities—that their children, like all children, deserve the same opportunities for healthy emotional and social development.
Looking ahead, researchers hope their work will encourage further investigation into the nuanced experiences of adopted youth, including those from different cultural backgrounds or in international adoption situations. For Thailand, expanding local research into the lives of adopted children—from their school experiences through to young adulthood—could provide data-driven insights for social policymakers and educators striving to support this small but important population.
For Thai families raising adopted children, these conclusions offer both comfort and inspiration. By providing a nurturing home and open communication, parents can expect their adopted teenagers to progress through love and dating much like their classmates. Teachers and school counselors should remember that adopted students’ romantic experiences will not automatically differ simply because of adoption—attention should instead focus on the unique challenges and strengths of each individual.
In practical terms, families and schools are encouraged to implement inclusive relationship education, provide supportive spaces for all youth to discuss social and romantic concerns, and avoid assumptions based on adoption status. Policy makers in Thailand might also consider leveraging emerging research like this to reduce stigma, expand post-adoption support services, and promote awareness through public campaigns that celebrate the diversity and potential of all Thai adolescents.
For further reading, see original coverage by PsyPost and UNICEF’s report on alternative care in Thailand.