Gay Men and Lesbians as Adoptive Parents

Adoption by gay men and lesbians is not a new phenomenon. Children have always been placed by public agencies in homes with gay and lesbian parents. Some gay men and lesbians have adopted children independently from private agencies or have made private adoption arrangements with individual birth mothers. This article draws on research literature, case examples, and in-depth interviews to identify and discuss the issues and concerns surrounding gay and lesbian adoptive parenting. Within the spirit of the Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) of 1997 (PL. 105-89), this article also presents a policy framework, which is inclusive of gay men and lesbians as adoptive parents, as a means to inform solid child welfare policies, practices, and programs.