@divalison... Welcome to the forum and thanks for sharing.
First of all, I just want to say how great it is that you and your husband adopted this child. She will benefit so much from having loving, caring parents after the difficulties she's had to endure.
As far as the stealing food and lying go, I don't know if I would associate it with her biological parents' addiction or not. Yes, lying and stealing are behaviors that a lot of addicts engage in. But in my experience, the lying and stealing usually come
after the addiction starts. My son never lied to us or stole from us
before he started using drugs. It was only after he was addicted that those traits started showing up.
Unless you're suggesting that your daughter is addicted to food, I would say her behavior could just as easily be tied to the abuse she's suffered. I'm sure that your daughter's past is having some influence on her behavior, but I'm obviously not an expert and can't tell you what's causing what.
Have you voiced your concerns to the therapist about the lying/stealing/addiction? If so, what did they say? If not, maybe you should consider doing so.
I will say this: I totally agree with your therapist about not focusing on and calling attention to your daughter's lying, but rather encouraging and praising her when she is doing well. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping to motivate someone to change their behavior. So keep doing that.
I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. The fact that you came to this forum and asked questions shows me that you are a fabulous parent. Your daughter is so lucky to have you. If you don't mind, keep checking in from time to time and let us know how things are going. I'd be curious to see what your therapist has to say about your addiction concerns.
We are here to support you in any way we can.
Peace.
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