Gay and Lesbian Family Building: A Strengths Perspective of Transracial Adoption

Abstract

In this article the authors explore transracial adoption in concert with gay and lesbian parenting and family building. Analyzing the transracial adoption knowledge base, gay and lesbian fostering/adoption trends, and research findings, the authors present areas that suggest gay and lesbian families may be better prepared than heterosexual individuals to parent children of color. Gay and lesbian parents may be more sensitive to and capable of creating skills a transracial adoptee requires due to similar oppression experiences. Using a framework of family resilience theory, the authors demarcate those characteristics that enhance outcomes for transracial gay and lesbian family building.

KEYWORDS:

• gay and lesbian parenting
• transracial adoption
• family building