Parallel Process Issues for Lesbian and Gay Adoptive Parents and Their Adopted Children

Gays and lesbians, both single and coupled, are increasingly turning to adoption to create or expand their families. This manuscript specifically addresses the continuing needs of adoptees and adoptive parents by exploring key issues in the life course of gays and lesbians and their adopted children, and identifying potential parallel development issues among these populations. The concept of parallel process is presented as a method that clinicians can employ in their work with gay and lesbian prospective adopters and adoptive parents. Using the life course perspective, clinicians can use parallel process to understand life events and transitions over the life course for lesbians and gay men and their adopted children and to assist gay and lesbian adoptive parents in understanding and responding to the experiences of their adopted children. Illustrative examples are provided on the use of parallel process with gay and lesbian prospective adopters and adoptive parents in clinical settings.