Same sex couples with children

Same sex couples with children

Introduction

Studies have estimated that 1 in 9 million children in the United States have at least one parent who is gay. In 2000, there were around 600,000 same sex partner homes and around 30% of these contained children. It is difficult to obtain the right count as lesbians and gays are not open to their sexual orientation. They fear that they will be discriminated in matters such as the loss of employment, custody of child and can be subjected to violence (Deane & Maya, 2002). The issue of custody of child arises from same sex partners either deciding to adopt a child or have children from previous heterosexual marriages. The custody of child has gained importance since there have been increase in options available to such partners who want to become parents either by donor insemination or being biological parents from their previous marriages.

Discussion

There have been studies that suggest that children which have two moms or two dads do equally well as those with heterosexual parents. It was noted in a comprehensive study judging the parenting methods of the same sex partners with the heterosexuals suggested that there was no difference in upbringing methods. The children had no issues in terms of emotional functioning, sexual orientation or gender role behavior. When a child becomes an adolescent and living with same sex partners showed that they were more connected in school. Further, it was easy for them to talk on difficult topics emotionally. The issues are similar such as the heterosexual parents like time management and responsibilities of parenthood. They also face issues such as the right limits for children by being understanding and accepting to their changing needs. The parenting tasks that require children to be open and honest in their communication, conflict resolution and monitoring children's playmates are of utmost concern to the same sex parents. One of the biggest challenges that are faced by same sex parents is that they must live in an environment which fosters a culture of support for such families. Further, they should also give similar importance to the heterosexual families living in the area.

Moreover, families that lack support from the biological parent can create a major issue within the family system. This paper aims to discuss the relationships and family lives of gay and lesbian family and the ways they manage their everyday lives. They have been part of a greater controversy in the past which include legal and social implications. The researchers in the field of psychology have to formulate and understand various issues in hand. There is an immense need for this as there are ethical considerations involved which require a need for commitment, knowledge, personal awareness and sensitivity (American Counseling Association, 1995). Understanding such families is vital practice for their functioning in the society, their influence on children and extended families. There are repercussions for counselors who are not concerting their efforts on understanding the diversity of such ...