Glossary

Adoptive parents - the adults who choose to parent a child who is not biologically theirs, forever and ever and always. From the point of finalization on, they are also known simply as “parents.” Often “Mom” and/or “Dad.”

Birthfather - the biological father of a child who is adopted. The title “birthfather” is not assumed until his rights are terminated. In some states, this termination of parental rights may occur before the birth of the child. Also known as a birthdad, biological dad, or other title, usually conferred by family preference. 

Birthmother - the biological mother of a child who is adopted. The title “birthmother” is not assumed until her rights are terminated (until then she is “only” an expectant woman or simply, mother). Also known as birthmom, first mother, biological mother, tummy mummy, and many other titles, usually conferred by family preference

Finalization - the court proceeding in which adoptive parents swear before a judge that they knowingly and willflully intend to parent their child, conferring upon said child all rights of an heir and assuming all the rights and priveleges of parenthood.  In some states, the parents and child are not required to be present in court for finalization

International adoption – an adoption in which the child to be adopted is not born in the country in which he or she is to be adopted.

Potential Birth Mother - an expectant woman who is the process of making an adoption plan. Some feel that this term should not be used because it infers that there is an expectation that she will place her child for adoption, when in reality that decision is not final until she terminates her parental rights, which cannot occur until after the baby is born. The same applies for the term “Potential Birth Father.”

Private adoption - an adoption in which the adopting parents do not contract with an agency. Instead, all legal proceedings are handled by an attorney. Parents may advertise or network and are required to find their own potential birthparents.