The Use of a Strength-Based Approach in Addressing Discrimination Against Gays and Lesbians

ABSTRACT

Gay parenting is a salient issue in American culture today and will continue to be a pressing issue in the near future. Just as society's definition of family has evolved over time, the meaning of family remains an important component within the gay community as well. This paper explores the topic of gay parenting and child rearing through an empirically based literature review. An overview of variables that tend to predict homophobia in heterosexuals is provided. Research is reviewed that explores social workers' and other helping professionals' feelings toward homophobia, and how these feelings can influence practice approaches in the area of adoptive services. In closing, an application of a strengths perspective to combating discrimination against gays and lesbians by social workers in adoptive services is proposed and analyzed.

Key Words:

• Adoption
• discrimination
• gay
• homophobia
• lesbian
• strengths perspective