LESBIAN AND GAY FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN - IMPLICATIONS OF SOCIAL-SCIENCE RESEARCH FOR POLICY

In this paper, we provide an overview of variability across jurisdicti ons in family law relevant to lesbian and gay parents and their childr en, showing that some courts have been negatively disposed to these fa milies, We summarize recent research findings suggesting that lesbian and gay parents are as likely as are heterosexual parents to provide h ome environments that support positive outcomes among children. Resear ch findings suggest that unless and until the weight of evidence can b e shown to have shifted, parental sexual orientation should be conside red irrelevant to disputes involving child custody, visitation, foster care, and adoption.