Pros and Cons of LBGT Adoption for Birth Mothers in OK
In today’s modern world, families come in all shapes and sizes. Adoption gives many families and individuals the ability to create a unique family of their own.
As a birth mother, you have probably considered many types of adoptive families, possibly even a same-sex couple. Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is a non-discriminatory agency that serves birth mothers, adoptive parents and adoptees from all walks of life — including couples and individuals who are members of the LGBT community.
When choosing an adoptive family for your child, it is essential to analyze the couple or individual from every possible angle. Do they match the kind of life that you want your child to have? Are they fully committed to being a parent, and giving your child their best chance in life? If they are members of the LGBT community, are there any important pros and cons of LGBT adoption that you should be aware of?
Cons of LGBT Adoption
1) Discrimination and Judgmental Remarks
When selecting adoptive parents for her child, a birth mother may fear that he or she will face discrimination and judgmental remarks growing up. That there’s a greater risk they will be bullied and seen differently. Even though the government has made great strides to instill state and federal protections against this, our society still has a long way to go. So, sadly, your child may very well be subject to bullying and discriminatory comments while in school or other places in public when raised by LGBT adoptive parents.
2) Mental Health Risks
Various studies have shown that adoptees raised by LGBT adoptive parents are at higher risk for mental health issues, including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, drug abuse and suicidal ideation. These conditions may spark enough fear to reject the idea of LGBT adoption altogether. Yet, our society and culture is slowly changing and becoming more tolerant and respectful of differing worldviews and lifestyles. So, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks, while still remaining positive and hopeful that your child will be loved, valued and have a wonderful life with their LGBT adoptive parents.
3) Lack of Parental Balance
Another argument against LGBT adoption regards a perceived lack of parental balance. That your child won’t receive all the qualities he or she needs to thrive if raised by two mothers or two fathers. For instance, a mother and father both impart different aspects of how to healthfully develop physically, emotionally, mentally and socially. This is especially true when your son or daughter reaches adolescents and their body experiences puberty. However, many studies show that there is little to no difference between having your child raised by a heterosexual couple or indivudal, or a member of the LGBT community.
Pros of LGBT Adoption
1) Your Child will be Wanted, Loved and Accepted
It goes without saying that LGBT adoptive parents can’t have children biologically. Yet, there are so many couples and individuals who still dream of raising a family and being parents. So, when you choose LGBT adoption, you can be assured that your child’s adoptive parents truly desire him or her. That your son or daughter will be wanted, loved with the adoptive parents’ whole hearts, and accepted into their world without question or judgment.
2) Your Child will Embrace Diversity
Along those same lines, LGBT adoptive parents can be a great influence on your child when it comes to embracing diversity. They can teach him or her to be more respectful, tolerant and accepting of other cultures, belief systems and viewpoints. This, in turn, can create a greater impact when your child starts a family of their own.
3) Your Child will be Welcomed into a Big Community
Raising a child takes a village, and this is still true when it comes to adoption. LGBT adoptive parents, like all other adoptive parents, have a strong support system ready to step in whenever it’s needed. Whether this is via family, friends, trusted neighbors and other community members — your child will be surrounded by a huge community of acceptance and love.
Pros and Cons of LGBT Adoption for Birth Mothers in OK
Choosing what kind of adoptive family you want for your child is a big decision. It’s important to look at all your options and research it as much as possible. This will help you determine what you feel is best for you and your child.
While the cons of LGBT adoption may seem overwhelming — and even a little scary — it’s important to also be aware of the positives. Always be sure to consult with your adoption caseworker if you have any specific questions or concerns regarding your adoption journey. Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is here to help in any way we can, and want you to feel confident if you choose LGBT adoptive parents to raise your child.
Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is a private adoption agency, licensed by the state of Oklahoma and leader in the adoption community. We have been assisting birth parents, children, and adoptive families in Oklahoma for over 19 years. Our staff members are committed to providing an ethical, empowering, and personalized adoption experience to all involved in the adoption process. If you are currently in the process of adopting a baby and have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Toll-free: 800-898-6028 | OKC Local: 405-755-1999 | Tulsa Local: 918-447-7777 | Text: 405-310-8790 | Email
Meet the Author: Grace Myers is a sophomore Digital Media major at North Greenville University As a firm believer that every individual has a story to tell, and a right to be properly represented, she loves meeting new people and learning their stories.
When she’s not writing, you can find her listening to music or cuddling with her dog, Sundae.
