The Pros And Cons Of Same Sex Parenting

What, if anything, is different about same sex rather than opposite sex parenting?
Introduction
Same-sex parenting has evolved and continues to do so currently, but parenting laws still lag behind the changing family dynamics, posing questions and challenges for non-traditional parenting. Whereas before, gay and lesbian individuals revealed their sexual orientations after having children with opposite-sex partners, now, more homosexual couples are actively planning their same-sex parenthood (Gates, Seidman and Richards). At the same time, many laws still prevent parents from engaging in non-traditional forms of childbearing, conception and upbringing. For instance, while both members of a same-sex couple consent and undergo a child

Citing mental health, conservatives express worries that the children of same-sex parents may likely become confused about their sexual identities or suffer from stigma and its implications (Goldberg, Weeks). Thus, according to such claims, the laws prevent children from being easily harmed. Interestingly, as shown by interviews conducted with adult children of homosexual couples, children grow up to be more tolerant and express no significant mental issues. At the same time, these concerns have real influence and are still materialized through “unequal” laws (Yuval), which same-sex family units must navigate (O’Donnell). For instance, the separation of same-sex couples is disadvantageous for the non-biological parent—they may not possess full legal parenting responsibilities (Joslin). The children, themselves, may be kept from welfare and paternal and economic rights (Gates). Essentially, despite the lack of evidence to validate the bases of many of these laws, the existing, conservative concerns seem to be utilized to legitimize the legal regulations. Independently, these laws pose serious, real material and mental challenges that invalidate, challenge and subvert same-sex parenting and prevent children from obtaining their rights. Overall, these regulations and their implications are likely more detrimental to a child’s mental health than growing up in a same-sex parenting unit. Nonetheless, dominant culture poses these legal interactions as preventive, necessary welfare