International adoption, a fairly recent event in the history of the United States, has started to receive attention. Areas of losses and gains are described with respect to the biological parent, the adopted child, and the adoptive parent. These issues are described in terms of the individual and the relationship between these individuals. Deficits and benefits specific to the donor and recipient countries are addressed. Bereavement issues inherent in the process of international adoption are identified and those externally induced by societal response to difference are highlighted. The well-being of the child depends on appropriately grieving the losses associated with being internationally adopted while at the same time appreciating the positives.
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