Lesbian Mothers and Their Children: A Review for School Psychologists

Abstract

This article reviews empirical and clinical research on lesbian mothers and their children. Three main family patterns of lesbian households are discussed, and some common misconceptions about these families are addressed. The research reviewed does not support differences between children of lesbians and children of heterosexuals with regard to their emotional health, interpersonal relationships, sexual orientation, or gender development. Psychological adjustment and parenting skills were not significantly different for lesbian and heterosexual mothers. Implications for school psychology practice and training and recommendations for future research are provided. An Appendix listing resources is included.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sherri B. Victor

Sherri B. Victor, M.S.Ed. is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist working in the New York City public school system. She is a doctoral student at The Graduate Center of the City University of New York. She expects to receive her degree in the winter of 1995.

Marian C. Fish

Marian C. Fish, PhD, is Professional Coordinator of the Graduate Program in School Psychology at Queens College of the City University of New York. Her research interests include family-school relationships, a family systems orientation to school psychology, and interventions for school problems.