Nature & Nurture – Family History for Adoptees

Two sisters, one adopted and one not, discuss the underlying concepts of genealogy for adoptees and their families. Come learn the difference between nature and nurture genealogy. The adoptee's biological "nature" family history, enhanced by careful use of DNA testing, can fill in blanks where records can't and help adoptees better understand their biological origin. The adoptive family's history can help explain the formative "nurture" foundation of an adoptee's life and create connections with adoptive family members and the adoptive family narrative. Using best practices, family history can be a powerful tool in binding adoptive families and in helping adoptees learn about and make peace with their individual life story.