We hear a lot in the media about untruthful birthmothers (as the media calls them) who most of the time are not even really pregnant but are just scamming prospective adoptive parents. But what we don’t hear about very often is the untruthful prospective adoptive parents, who may be so desperate to adopt a baby that they are dishonest or misrepresent themselves to expectant mothers considering adoption.

Granted, there are more couples hoping to adopt that are sincere, respectful, and honest, than not, but if you are considering adoption and looking for adoptive parents for your baby, there are a few things to keep in mind.

My friend Kelly Kiser-Mostrom came up with this great list of warning signs for expectant mothers. If you are making an adoption plan and begin to look for adoptive parents for your child, keep these tips in mind.

1. Adoptive parents making demands instead of requests.



2. An adoptive couple that does not have a home study.



3. An adoptive parent whose story changes in regards to what type of adoption they are looking for and how much contact they want after the baby is born.



4. An adoptive parent that is extremely desperate and says or does anything they can in order to get the expectant mom to match with them.



5. An adoptive parent that pressures you, belittles you, is disrespectful, or they have no concept of boundaries.



6. An adoptive couple that does not support counseling for the expectant mom. (Some states require mandatory counseling.)



7. An adoptive couple that tries to circumvent the laws or disregards expectant mom and dad's rights.

Also, avoid prospective adoptive parents who are overly pushy, who call you too much, or unintentionally pressure you to place your baby with them. Choosing parents for your child is a huge decision so take your time with it and don’t feel pressured!