Preparing for Adoption Home Study Questions

We're always here to help you prepare for the possible home study questions your social worker will ask you.

Taking the time to prepare for these questions will help you respond thoughtfully and show that you’re ready to provide a safe, loving home for your future child.

If you want more professional help about common home study questions or want to begin your home study process today, then select your state below.

You can also complete our online form to connect with one of our professionals today.

Why the Home Study Questions Are Necessary

The purpose of the home study is for a social worker to assess a family’s living situation and readiness for adoption.

Among other home study requirements, the interview portion of the home study is the time for you and the social worker to get to know each other. It also allows them to gain insight into a family’s attitudes and perspectives on adoption.

No matter which type of adoption you’re pursuing, a home study is required. This is to ensure that every child placement with an adoptive family is in the best interest of the child.

The presence of a safe, secure and supportive family and living situation is crucial for a child to grow and thrive.

Common Adoption Interview Questions

Although every home study interview is unique, there are several categories of questions you expect to respond to, such as:

The Autobiographical Home Study Questions

• What was your childhood like?

• What is your relationship with your parents?

• How do you think your upbringing has shaped you?

• What is your life like today?

• What is your community like?

The Adoption-Specific Interview Questions

• Why do you want to adopt?

• What do you think your parenting style will be like?

• How well do you understand the adoption process?

• What do you know about some of the unique challenges adopted children can face?

• What are your hopes for your child?

Your social worker may ask you other home study questions that aren’t on this list, but this is a great starting point to prepare you.

Preparing for Home Study Questions

First, spend some time reading over the list above and becoming familiar with the questions.

And take time to think over your answers. Thoughtful answers go a long way.

Some people also find it helpful to write out home study questions and answers. You could even do a mock interview using these questions.

You and your significant other can take turns playing the role of the social worker while the other practices responses.

Our adoption specialists have worked with thousands of adoptive families and helped them complete their home studies. In fact, some of us have completed home studies as adoptive parents ourselves.