Children of Lesbian and Gay Parents: Reflections on the Research-Policy Interface

Around the world today, the extent to which legal recognition should be provided for relationships among lesbian and gay parents and their children is a subject of active debate. This chapter first describes some of the diverse family arrangements that have been created by lesbian and gay adults. Next, the chapter summarizes the current status of legal and policy issues relevant to lesbian and gay parents, and their children in the United States and around the world today. Third, it overviews research evidence about lesbian- and gay-parented families, with special emphasis on the development of children living within them. Fourth, the chapter describes some of the ways in which research findings have been brought to bear on legal and policy debates. Finally, it offers some reflections on the interface of research and policy, as this is relevant to sexual orientation and family lives.