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Same Sex Adoption Research Paper

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Within the past few years, homosexuality has become more widely accepted and integrated in today’s society. Strides have been made in order to grant same sex couples the same freedom that heterosexuals couples have. Recently, the Supreme Court granted same sex couples marriage equality. However, the issue of same sex adoption surfaces problems. The idea of same sex adoption is controversial within our society. Religious beliefs and personal preferences tend to steer individuals away from the idea of a homosexual couple adopting a baby. If asked, many people believe that adoption should be between a traditional family consisting of a man and a woman. Anything different is considered deviant and should not be allowed. Arguments such …show more content…

However, there is no longer a need to procreate for the sole purpose of having a biological child. There are plenty of families who will pass on their biological genes but there is a shortage of families willing to adopt a child. As of September 2003, the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) reported approximately 400,540 children in foster care in the U.S. alone. It is senseless to refuse a willing family the right to adoption solely based on sexual orientation and a preconceived idea about what a family should be. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), ‘‘Research has shown that the adjustment, development, and psychological well-being of children is unrelated to parental sexual orientation and that children of lesbian and gay parents are as likely as those of heterosexual parents to flourish’’ (American Psychological Association). This is a perfect example of how homosexual orientation child nurturing is equivalent to heterosexual orientation child nurturing. Therefore, the sexual orientation is irrelevant if both parents have passed all qualifications to be considered a proper parent. A child’s biggest hope is to find a family to love, nurture, and build a foundation on which they can ‘flourish.’ Why take away that hope for a child in foster care based on ones beliefs of …show more content…

A same sex couple is potentially better suited to help a child through hardships because, they, themselves, have possibly experienced discrimination and prejudice in their lifetime. Because of this, homosexual couples are equipped to help a child emotionally deal with a trouble past just like a heterosexual couple. Being raised in an accepting atmosphere tends to help children accept and be more open with themselves and with others. This type of atmosphere can teach children not to discriminate based on race, gender, or sexuality but rather base opinions on personality. Just because something is “natural” does not mean it is better just as unnatural is not always the worst option. Housing with a married mother and father is no longer the only alternative. Lesbian and gay couples offer stability, love, and care for a child that otherwise might not be achieved by remaining in a foster care

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