Adoption is a legal process that allows for the permanent transfer of the legal rights, responsibilities, and privileges of parenthood to a new legal parent or parents from the biological or legal parents. Unlike guardianship, adoption is intended to create a permanent change in status, requiring societal recognition through legal or religious sanction. Historically, adoption practices often emphasised the adopter's political and economic interests, such as ensuring male heirs. However, modern adoption laws prioritise the child's welfare and development. Different types of adoption include foster care adoption, international adoption, and embryo adoption. Adoption is a complex process with emotional implications for adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents, often involving questions of identity and belonging. The evolution of adoption reflects changing societal values towards prioritizing the best interests of the child.