Should parents who relinquish older children be applauded?
Yes, I think they should be applauded for trying to do what is best for the child (and adoption if that is what is best). Not everybody can handle a special needs child. This can include finances, living situation, parent health problems, ability to read, family support, other children and other things that are often out of the parents control. Many of these parents actually continue to remain in contact with the child. In some cases, alternative homes are sought because the child is violent and there are other children in the home. These kids often respond better to caregivers other than the parents (according to my social worker friend).
