encyclopedia of adoption

adoption triad

Concept describing the genetic and/or legal relationship of the birthparents, adoptive parents and adopted child to each other. Those who support the concept of a "triad" rather than a "triangle" or a "circle" believe that the triad concept is more clear because it does not connote a tightly knit relationship.

for California

Rather than being at opposite ends, as in a triangle, or facing each other, as in a circle, the triad describes the major parties to the adoption but does not presume there will be a continuing relationship between the birthparents and the adopted person (although such a relationship could theoretically develop as in the case of an OPEN ADOPTION).

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