Adoption Type

LGBTQ people are increasingly becoming adoptive parents within the context of same-sex relationships. Rates of adoption by same-sex couples have doubled over the last decade, and approximately 2 million lesbian, gay, and bisexual people report being interested in adopting. In realizing their desires to parent, prospective adoptive parents must choose between three central adoption types: international adoption, private domestic adoption, and public domestic adoption. The process of choosing an adoption route entails complex intersections of personal desires, social norms and expectations, financial constraints, and legal regulations. All prospective adoptive parents negotiate the perceived benefits and challenges of various adoption routes, and same-sex couples must additionally navigate societal discrimination and legal challenges in pursuing adoption. This entry provides an overview of the central benefits and challenges ...