Lesbian and gay parenting: babes in arms or babes in the woods?

Abstract

This paper will examine developments in parenting by lesbians and gay men. It will draw on available research evidence to address fundamental questions posed about the impact of parenting by this particular group of parents on the children whom they raise. The paper will also explore motivation and routes to parenthood and the specific arrangements lesbians and gay men have evolved to make parenting a viable option in their lives. Dilemmas and challenges faced by lesbian and gay parents will be explored, and the implications for practice are considered.

Keywords:

• Parenting
• lesbians& gay men
• impact on children
• evidence base
• practice considerations
• dilemmas

Notes

Contributors

Damian McCann, Consultant Family & Systemic Psychotherapist, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service, Edgware Community Hospital; Associate Pink Therapy Services and visiting lecturer at City University, Institute of Family Therapy & The Tavistock Centre.

Howard Delmonte, Couples Counsellor & Co-ordinator PACE Family Support Service, London, UK.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Damian McCann

Contributors Damian McCann, Consultant Family & Systemic Psychotherapist, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service, Edgware Community Hospital; Associate Pink Therapy Services and visiting lecturer at City University, Institute of Family Therapy & The Tavistock Centre. Howard Delmonte, Couples Counsellor & Co-ordinator PACE Family Support Service, London, UK.