Self-Defined Empowerment for Gay and Lesbian Parents: A Qualitative Examination

Abstract

In increasing numbers, lesbians and gay men are choosing to overcome societal barriers and fulfill their desire to become parents. The majority of empirical investigations with gay parents has focused on the adjustment of their children raised in nonheterosexual homes. Less attention has been focused on the needs of the gay or lesbian parent. In this study, results from qualitative research investigating the empowerment needs of lesbian and gay parents are presented. Descriptors of empowerment are divided into external and internal factors.

Studying Complex Families in Context

“…… [Y]ou don't have stereotypes to fall back on” (p. 39). These data, and other qualitative studies of gay fathers that were not reviewed (e.g., Benson, Silverstein, & Auerbach, 2005; Berkowitz, 2007; Berkowitz & Marsiglio, 2007; Gianino, 2008; Lassiter, Dew, Newton, Hays, & Yarbrough, 2006) provide rich insights into the nature and meaning of parenthood in the gay father context.…”

Social Support Throughout the Deployment Cycle for Women Veterans Returning From Iraq and Afghanistan

“…Several women expressed a stronger spiritual relationship post-deployment that provided them with emotional support and community they did not have prior to their deployment. Additionally, several of the women who expressed isolation or relational disconnection found connections through their faith and spiritual communities (Lassiter, Dew, Newton, Hays, & Yarbrough, 2006;Walsh, 2007).…”

Variations in Family Composition

“…9-1 and Table 9-5) (Pawelski et al, 2006;Perrin and Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health, 2006). Good parenting, regardless of sexual identity, leads to strong attachment bonds, minimal emotional and behavior problems, and minimal confusion over sexual identity (Lassiter et al, 2006;Sargent, 2001). Similar to all families, open communication between parents and children is important; in these families, open discussions about the parents' sexual orientation can strengthen the parent-child bond (Adams et al, 2004;Dingfelder, 2005).…”