Pursuing Parenthood

Dean Murphy analyses how relatedness is enacted in the context of gay men pursuing parenthood and a ‘child of one’s own’ through both domestic and transnational surrogacy arrangements. Drawing on data collected from in-depth interviews with gay men living in Australia and the United States, and news media, the book explores how gay men ‘enact’ parenthood and family life in ways that both challenge and reinforce dominant notions of kinship and masculinity. These men represent an important first generation to access assisted reproductive technologies for this purpose and are part of an increasing proportion of gay men becoming parents outside a (previous) heterosexual relationship. The findings demonstrate that men come to experience parenthood desire largely because of the new narratives and opportunities being made available to them today.

Begins by identifying the basic objections that have been raised to reproductive technology by the Catholic Church and others and shows why many of these criticisms are misplaced. This book argues that critics of reproductive technology have too frequently assumed that genetic connection is the sole basis of parental obligation.

This volume explores the transition to parenthood from a holistic developmental approach, relating to barriers such as fertility problems and traumatic childbirth, as well as pathways such as positive experiences of pregnancy and childbirth. It presents an extended process, beginning with infertility issues, continuing with subjects pertaining to decisions regarding parenthood, pregnancy and birth, and ending with the early stages of parenthood from a positive psychology perspective. The volume draws on theories of resilience, meaning, terror management, and attachment, and considers psychological, sociological, legal, policy, medical, and therapy issues. It relates to the developmental needs of individuals and couples, as well as to the role played by family, society, and the media, offering a comprehensive in-depth evaluation of the latest topics.

Planning to become a parent is a profound experience, at times agonizing, hopeful, stressful, and joyous. Not everyone is able to become pregnant, however. When the journey to parenthood proves challenging, Planning Parenthood will guide prospective parents through the complicated mazes of assisted reproduction and adoption. Specialist authors first describe fertility assistance, surrogacy, and adoption, clearly outlining the requirements of each strategy. They compare the medical, emotional, financial, and legal investments and risks involved with each of these options. Then they introduce the issues that people will need to consider when deciding which path to parenthood is best for them. Along the way these experts offer encouragement for changing course under any number of circumstances. Supporting the detailed information in this book are personal stories of the often long, winding, and emotional road to parenthood—from in vitro fertilization to egg donation to surrogacy to adoption. Armed with professional knowledge and inspired by the experiences of others who have gone before them, prospective parents will be informed and reassured by this unique resource.

Our parents often have a significant impact on the content of our beliefs, the values we hold, and the goals we pursue and becoming a parent can also have a similar impact on our lives. In Conceptions of Parenthood Michael Austin provides a rigorous and accessible philosophical analysis of the numerous and distinct conceptions of parenthood and their implications for social, political, and personal life.

When gay couples become parents, they face a host of questions and issues that their straight counterparts may never have to consider. How important is it for each partner to have a biological tie to their child? How will they become parents: will they pursue surrogacy, or will they adopt? Will both partners legally be able to adopt their child? Will they have to hide their relationship to speed up the adoption process? Will one partner be the primary breadwinner? And how will their lives change, now that the presence of a child has made their relationship visible to the rest of the world? In Gay Dads: Transitions to Adoptive Fatherhood, Abbie E. Goldberg examines the ways in which gay fathers approach and negotiate parenthood when they adopt. Drawing on empirical data from her in-depth interviews with 70 gay men, Goldberg analyzes how gay dads interact with competing ideals of fatherhood and masculinity, alternately pioneering and accommodating heteronormative “parenthood culture.” The first study of gay men's transitions to fatherhood, this work will appeal to a wide range of readers, from those in the social sciences to social work to legal studies, as well as to gay-adoptive parent families themselves.

Preconception and LGBTQ+ Couples: Options and Support for Parenthood is a comprehensive guide that provides valuable information and resources for LGBTQ+ couples who are considering starting a family. This short read book covers a wide range of topics, including adoption, assisted reproductive technologies, surrogacy, legal considerations, support networks, financial considerations, parenting resources, building a supportive community, coming out, and celebrating LGBTQ+ parenthood. The book begins with a detailed exploration of adoption, discussing the various options available to LGBTQ+ couples and the support systems in place to facilitate the adoption process. It then delves into assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), providing insights into the procedures, success rates, and potential challenges. Surrogacy is another important topic covered in this book, with a focus on both gestational surrogacy and traditional surrogacy. The legal considerations surrounding LGBTQ+ parenthood, including parental rights and second-parent adoption, are thoroughly examined to ensure couples are well-informed and prepared. Support networks play a crucial role in the journey to parenthood, and this book offers guidance on finding LGBTQ+ family organizations, online communities, counseling and therapy services, and peer support groups. Financial considerations are also addressed, including information on insurance coverage, grants, and financial assistance programs that can help alleviate the financial burden of starting a family. In addition to practical resources, the book provides a list of recommended books, websites, and online resources that offer further information and support. Building a supportive community is emphasized, with advice on coming out to family and friends, creating a network of allies, and celebrating LGBTQ+ parenthood. The Frequently Asked Questions section addresses common concerns and queries, ensuring that readers have access to the information they need. The book also encourages readers to reach out with any additional questions or comments they may have. Preconception and LGBTQ+ Couples: Options and Support for Parenthood is an invaluable resource for LGBTQ+ couples who are navigating the path to parenthood. With its comprehensive coverage of various options, legal considerations, support networks, and financial resources, this book equips readers with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions and embark on their journey to becoming parents. Get your copy today and start your journey towards LGBTQ+ parenthood with confidence. Plus, receive a bonus gift of How To Be A Super Mom, absolutely free! This title is a short read. A Short Read is a type of book that is designed to be read in one quick sitting. These no fluff books are perfect for people who want an overview about a subject in a short period of time. Table of Contents Preconception and LGBTQ+ Couples: Options and Support for Parenthood Adoption Assisted Reproductive Technologies IVF IUI Surrogacy Gestational Surrogacy Traditional Surrogacy Legal Considerations Parental Rights Second-Parent Adoption Support Networks LGBTQ+ Family Organizations Online Communities Mental Health and Emotional Support Counseling and Therapy Peer Support Groups Financial Considerations Insurance Coverage Grants and Financial Assistance Parenting Resources Books Websites and Online Resources Building a Supportive Community Coming Out Creating a Supportive Network Celebrating LGBTQ+ Parenthood Frequently Asked Questions Have Questions / Comments?

This far-reaching and contemporary new Encyclopedia examines and explores the lives and experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) individuals, focusing on the contexts and forces that shape their lives. The work focuses on LGBTQ issues and identity primarily through the lenses of psychology, human development and sociology, emphasizing queer, feminist and ecological perspectives on the topic, and addresses questions such as: · What are the key theories used to understand variations in sexual orientation and gender identity? · How do Gay-Straight Alliances (GSA) affect LGBTQ youth? · How do LGBTQ people experience the transition to parenthood? · How does sexual orientation intersect with other key social locations, such as race, to shape experience and identity? · What are the effects of marriage equality on sexual minority individuals and couples? Top researchers and clinicians contribute to the 400 signed entries, from fields such as: · Psychology · Human Development · Gender/Queer Studies · Sexuality Studies · Social Work · Sociology The SAGE Encyclopedia of LGBTQ Studies is an essential resource for researchers interested in an interdisciplinary perspective on LGBTQ lives and issues.