This is the second report from a longitudinal study of 84 lesbian families in which the children were conceived by donor insemination. At the time of this interview, the index children were two years old. Results indicate that (1) parenting was associated with a high level of lesbian visibility among participants; (2) 75% of coupled participants considered themselves equal co-parents who shared child-rearing and domestic responsibilities; (3) 50% of coupled participants believed that time spent with a child was more influential in mother-child bonding than were biological connections; (4) having a child brought 69% of all mothers closer to their families of origin; and (5) co-mothers who had legally adopted their children felt that the adoption enhanced the legitimacy of their parenting role. The impact of homophobia on lesbian family life is discussed.
Learning Objectives: This presentation will provide information on data from a longitudinal study of 84 lesbian families in which the children were conceived by donor insemination. Issues such as homophobia on lesbian families, gender issues and other social issues will be discussed
Keywords: Children, Family Involvement
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.