Knowledge, Attitudes, and Acceptability of Child Adoption Among Adults in a Rural Community in Ebonyi State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

A bstract Background: Child adoption is an important social and legal mechanism for caring for orphans and vulnerable children. It establishes legal rights for adopters and adoptees to become a family, enabling children to enjoy improved care and quality of life in a stable home. Despite the Child Rights Act (2003), which regulates child welfare and adoption practices in Nigeria, public understanding of adoption procedures and policies remains limited. Objectives: This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and acceptability of child adoption and identified factors associated with acceptance of adoption among adults in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 430 adults selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and analyzed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Descriptive statistics summarized the variables, whereas the chi-square test assessed associations between categorical variables and child adoption acceptability at 5% significance level. Results: The mean age of respondents was 38.0 ± 3.4 years, and 4.2% had previously adopted a child. Most participants (79%) demonstrated good knowledge of child adoption, and 54% had positive attitudes. However, acceptability was low (37.2%). Misconceptions ( P = 0.008), cultural beliefs ( P < 0.0001), religion ( P < 0.0001), level of education ( P = 0.009), family influence ( P = 0.005), and financial factors ( P < 0.0001) were significantly associated with the acceptability of child adoption. Conclusion: Although knowledge and attitudes toward child adoption were relatively favorable, acceptability remains low due to sociocultural and information barriers. Increased public education and community-based advocacy are needed to improve awareness and promote adoption as a social responsibility that enhances child survival and well-being in Nigeria.