(855) 4-ESSAYS

Type a new keyword(s) and press Enter to search

Adoption Laws


Research among this topic was started with the declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder in 1973. (Patterson) Then in 1978 doctors started to take a closer look at the children of homosexuals, and then became a popular topic in psychiatric journals. (Patterson).
             Despite the fact of the declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, many courts in certain states still look at homosexuals as mentally ill. They believe that the circumstances in which homosexuals live their life, such as discrimination, often cause distress, therefore impairing their ability to be a parent. (Patterson) A second argument the courts use is that children of gay and lesbian couples will more likely to grow up and become gay or lesbian. They also have expressed fears that: .
             "Children in the custody of gay or lesbian parents will be more vulnerable to mental breakdown, and will exhibit more adjustment difficulties and behavior problems, and will be less psychologically healthy than children growing up in the homes of heterosexual parents." (Patterson).
             Another argument that the courts use is that the children of homosexuals will experience difficulties in relationships with other children and adults. For example, judges have repeatedly expressed concern that their peers will tease them. (Patterson) Finally, judges have expressed a concern that gay or lesbian parents are more likely to sexually abuse their children. (Patterson).
             On the other hand many psychologists have proven all these assumptions to be inaccurate, and many other states can agree. Many psychologists argue that beliefs that gay and lesbian adults cannot make good parents are very speculative. .
             "Lesbians and heterosexual women have not been found to differ markedly either in their overall mental health or in their approaches to child rearing, nor have lesbians" romantic and sexual relationships with other women detract from their ability to care for their children.


Essays Related to Adoption Laws


Got a writing question? Ask our professional writer!
Submit My Question