Gay Men Choosing Parenthood

Using a""decidedly gay-affirming lens"" that does not assume heterosexuality is the norm, Mallon's study of gay parenthood employs case studies and interviews to illuminate its subject. The author, an associate professor of social work at Hunter College, examines the factors that contribute to the changes in gay men's lives once they become parents and offers suggestions as to why these changes should impact the child welfare system and professionals who work in the human services fields. Focusing on dads in New York and Los Angeles and using cogent, non-technical prose, Mallon explores issues such as the initial reactions to bringing a new child home, community responses to gay dads and gender politics. He also provides insight into the emotions common to gay men who choose to become parents. His study should enlighten psychologists, policy makers and anyone working in the field of childcare and the legal and social institutions surrounding it.