Psychology

The intersection of multiple minority identities: Perspectives of white lesbian couples adopting racial/ethnic minority children

Document Type

Article

Abstract

In order to analyse the salience of race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, and adoptive status for lesbian adoptive parents, this study examined the challenges and strengths described by 20 White lesbian couples (40 women) who were adopting racial/ethnic minority children from within the United States. Data from two time points (pre- and post-adoptive placement) were analysed qualitatively. Results indicated that the majority of women voiced concerns about raising racial/ethnic minority children in a 'White privileged' society. Many women reported facing a lack of understanding from others and were aware of multiple layers of stigma. However, having faced discrimination themselves as sexual minorities, many also perceived themselves as possessing unique strengths (e.g., experience coping with stigma). Many women expressed feeling that by drawing on support from their communities as well as their own awareness of and experience with diversity issues, they could prepare their children for the challenges they might face.

Publication Title

Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy

Publication Date

12-1-2010

Volume

31

Issue

4 SPECIAL ISSUE

First Page

340

Last Page

353

ISSN

0814-723X

DOI

10.1375/anft.31.4.340

Keywords

adoption, intersectionality, lesbian, parenthood, qualitative, transracial

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