Exploring The Relationships Between Gender-Neutral Parenting Attitudes, Negative Dimensions of Sexual Orientation Identity, and Child Outcomes Among Lesbian Mothers

• In Event: Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: PS 13 Topic - Sex, Gender

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to explore the correlations between lesbian mothers’ gender-neutral parenting attitudes, negative dimensions of their sexual orientation identity, and child outcomes. Participants included lesbian mothers (N = 40) with at least one child between the ages of 3 and 8 years-old. To measure the constructs of interest, participants were assessed via an online survey using three instruments, 1) the Child Gender Socialization Scale, 2) the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale, and 3) the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Four open-ended response questions were additionally included to better support the findings. Results indicated factors such as the sex of the child, education level, and internalized homonegativity can play a significant role in gender-neutral parenting attitudes and child outcomes among lesbian mothers. Implications regarding gender-neutral parenting practices and research on lesbian mothers are further discussed.

Authors

• Brittany Alligood, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  Presenting Author

• Archana V Hegde, East Carolina University
  Non-Presenting Author