Gerald P. Mallon

Six to ten million children of lesbian, gay, and bisexual parents currently live in the United States, and one-third of lesbian households and one-fifth of gay male households have children. Despite this, some child welfare workers view gay and lesbian people as a last resort in family placement. Although a growing number of lesbians and gay men are applying to adopt and foster children, they remain an underused resource because of stereotypes, prejudices, and legislation that makes it difficult for gays and lesbians to foster or adopt. With a national shortfall of adoptive and foster placements, agencies need to encourage lesbian and gay applicants to come forward for children in need. Lesbian and Gay Foster and Adoptive Parents explores the myths and prejudices that influence attitudes toward lesbians and gay men as parents, examines how the development of legislation over the years has influenced perceptions of lesbians and gay men as parents, and explores ways for social workers to more effectively support lesbian and gay adopters and foster parents once they have been matched with a child or youth. Selected Reading Questionnaire.… (más)