According to science, children raised by LGBTQ parents thrive

Children raised by LGBTQ+ parents thrive just as well, if not better, than children raised by their straight counterparts, an international study has found.

The analysis looked at 34 global studies between 1989 and 2022 in countries where same-sex marriage is legal. New research has been conducted to find out if there are differences between children raised by LGBTQ+ parents and heterosexual couples.

The study – the first of its kind – examined parents’ psychological adjustment, parent-child relationships and children’s developmental outcomes.

Not only did the study prove that both scenarios resulted in equally good child development in most cases, but it also found that children – particularly very young children – of LGBTQ+ couples were actually better off in some situations than those of were raised by heterosexual parents.

The report concluded: “Most family outcomes are similar between sex minority families and heterosexual families, and sex minority families have even better outcomes in some domains.

“The . . . results suggested that families with sexual minorities may perform better than heterosexual families on children’s psychological adjustment and parent-child relationships.”

The research continued that there may be fewer gender stereotypes among children raised in families with minority parents compared to heterosexual parent families.

“She [LGBTQ+ parents] were described as more tolerant of diversity and caring for younger children than children of heterosexual parents,” the researchers added.

“Exploring gender identity and sexuality can actually enhance children’s ability to thrive and thrive in a range of contexts.”

“Studies like this are really to be welcomed”

Following the results of the study, Tor Docherty, executive director of LGBTQ+ charity New Family Social, told PinkNews the results offer “valuable insights”.

“Any studies that support good parenting for LGBTQ+ people are really welcome. We hear about the unique skills and dedication of our LGBTQ+ members every day from adoption and support agencies,” she said.

“Our experiences in dealing with issues of sexual orientation and gender identity give us valuable insight into the challenges that children and young people face. LGBTQ+ people need to understand their worth and place in the world in a way other people don’t.

“It’s a skill that cannot be taught. It helps us to better support children, especially those in care.”

Cardiff’s Damian Kerlin, who is a father of twins with his partner Andrew, told PinkNews the results prove LGBTQ+ people are just as qualified to care for children as straight people.

“I love that this has been done and evidence for those who have ever had doubts. The LGBTQ+ community is more than capable of raising children, but I have to say I find it baffling that they needed proof at all,” he said.

“There is no such thing anymore [as] a traditional family makeup. We now live in a world where differences are beautiful and should be celebrated—whether it’s two moms, two dads, a single parent, grandparents, or caregivers.

“Family is more than blood, and the LGBTQ+ community knows that better than most. It’s love, comfort and security, and we have that in abundance.”