[Coming-out, support from family of origin and relationship adjustment of lesbian mothers whose children were born in a previous heterosexual relationship: an exploratory study].
Lesbian couples differ from heterosexual couples in that they must develop their relationship within an environment that is generally unsympathetic to homosexuality, a fact that could accentuate the importance of family support. Furthermore, the disclosure of their sexual orientation by lesbian couples could also affect the support given by family members. The present study examines the effect of coming-out and family support on the relationship adjustment of lesbian mothers whose children were born within a heterosexual context. It was expected that family support would mediate the relationship between coming-out and relationship adjustment. Fifty-five lesbian mothers currently in a relationship answered questions about their perception of family support, on their coming-out behaviour and their relationship adjustment. Results revealed a positive relationship between coming-out and family support, and between family support and relationship adjustment, however no association was found between coming-out and relationship adjustment. The mediation model was therefore not confirmed. Finally, the authors discuss the implications of these results.
Vyncke
Johanna D
JD
Département de psychologie, UQAM.
Julien
Danielle
D
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D005195:Family Relations; D005260:Female; D020010:Heterosexuality; D018452:Homosexuality, Female / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D009034:Mother-Child Relations; D012944:Social Support; D014342:Truth Disclosure