Lesbian and Gay Couples and Their Children

Do gay men and lesbians desire and have committed relationships?

Yes, survey data indicate that between 40% and 60% of gay men and between 45% and 80% of lesbians are currently involved in a committed relationship.  In addition, between 18% and 28% of gay couples and 8% and 21% of lesbian couples have lived together 10 years or more.  Factors that predict relationship satisfaction, commitment, and stability are remarkably similar for both same-sex cohabiting couples and heterosexual married couples.

Do gay and lesbian adults make fit parents?

Gay and lesbian parents are as likely as heterosexual parents to provide healthy and supportive environments for their children. Lesbian and heterosexual women do not differ markedly either in their overall mental health or in their approaches to child rearing. Nor do lesbians' romantic and sexual relationships with other women detract from their ability to care for their children (the limited data on the children of gay fathers suggests similar findings). Recent evidence suggests that gay and lesbian couples with children tend to divide child care and household responsibilities evenly and to report satisfaction with their relationship.

Does parental sexual orientation affect children’s development?

Studies of various aspects of child development reveal few differences among children of lesbian mothers and heterosexual parents in such areas as personality, self-concept, behavior, and sexual identity. Evidence also suggests that children of lesbian and gay parents have normal social relationships with peers and adults. Fears about children of lesbian or gay parents being sexually abused by adults, ostracized by peers, or isolated in single-sex lesbian or gay communities have received no scientific support.

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