Challenges of Same Sex Families

Challenges of same sex families are numerous. The family structure and dynamic is quite different from heterosexual families and if the children involved are from a previous heterosexual situation, yet another set of circumstances will exist for the kids. As someone with multiple children, I find that there are a number of variables that set me apart from the "normal" 2-3 child family. However, I think for same sex families, the variables are more abundant, as a result of that those who are not familiar or accepting of these families becomes abundant as well.

I took interest in this topic because I want to be familiar with their set of circumstances and found an engaging website called Raising Children Network from Australia, that had what I considered to be some good insight into the subject.

Prejudice

It seems noone can escape this aspect of being untraditional on many levels. I find that I go through some of this as a result of my large family, and I'm sure same sex families suffer plenty prejudice to go around.

Not only does prejudice show up on a personal level for same sex families through the people they encounter, it becomes something to be dealt with institutionally as well. Whether it be support groups in the community or within the workplace, members of same sex families often find themselves up against these circumstances.

My sister, a lesbian actually began a support group for gay and lesbian members of her workplace and found it was very well received by both her heterosexual and homosexual co-workers alike. I would encourage anyone in the same predicament to be the force that changes other's awareness of same sex families within the workplace. My sister found it to be a powerfully positive aspect to the work environment where she was employed.

Kids Originally from Heterosexual Families

This challenge is often one that has a lot of fear and doubt associated with it. The new same sex parent may become worried that he/she will not be able to adequately meet the new needs and concerns that accompany their childs unfamiliar situation. Often these concerns can be addressed by talking with a therapist between the same sex parent and child to effectively work through the unchartered areas within the new parent/child relationship.

I have a friend who found themselves in this situation and the therapist made the transition time one that was so much more tolerable with little negativity. Her therapist was able to make useful and practical suggestions that without the professional would've left them with little to work from.