adopter

An adopter is a person, group, or organization that accepts and begins to use something new, such as a product, idea, practice, or policy. The term is neutral and is used across fields to denote the act of adoption, distinguishing those who start using or endorsing a change from initiators or creators.

In the social science framework of the diffusion of innovations, adopters are individuals or groups who adopt an innovation at different times. Everett Rogers identifies five categories: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. The characteristics of adopters—such as risk tolerance, social influence, and perceived usefulness—shape the speed and pattern of diffusion.

In a child welfare and family context, an adopter refers to a person who is approved to adopt a child, commonly called an adoptive parent. The process typically includes a home study, background checks, training, and legal proceedings. Adopters assume parental rights and responsibilities through legal adoption and may receive post-adoption support.

In technology, policy, and organizational settings, adopters are those who implement or begin to use new systems, policies, or practices. Understanding adopter needs—usability, training, perceived benefits, and organizational culture—helps improve acceptance and effective integration.

See also: adoption, adoptive parent, diffusion of innovations, adopter categories.