Gay Parental

POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES 1
GAY-PARENTAL RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHILD’S EXPERIENCES IN A
HETERONORMATIVE CULTURE
In partial fulfillment of the requirements in Practical Research 1
RESEARCHERS:
DIAZ, Airish
MEJORADA, Samantha Nicole
PEPITO, Perla Joy
RAYMUNDO, Allan Jr.
Christ Michael Entienza, MPsy, RPm
RESEARCH ADVISER
2019
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The researchers send their deepest gratitude to the people who supported and
provided us with our needs in fulfilling this study.
First and foremost, the researchers would like to thank all the participants who
provided insight and expertise that greatly assisted the research. This research would
not be possible without them.
Second, profound thanks to the unending assistance of our research adviser
and instructor Mr. Christ Michael Entienza, for being hands on during our conduction
of the study, and for his comments that needed to be improved in our research which
greatly helped the study.
To the researchers’ families, endless appreciations to you for helping them
conduct this research with your outmost moral and financial support all throughout.
And lastly, we are greatly thankful to the Lord Almighty for all His blessings.
The Researchers
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Background of the Study ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Significance of the Study ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Scopes and Limitations of the Study ........................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Statement of the Problem............................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Assumptions................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Definition of Terms ...................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
CHAPTER 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Heteronormative Culture ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Sexual Orientation ....................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Parental Attachment .................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Society’s view on gay parents ..................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Social Interaction Of A Gay’s Child ............................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Gender Roles Of Husband And Wife In A Homosexual Family .. Error! Bookmark not
defined.
Homosexual Parents In Child’s Development ............. Error! Bookmark not defined.
Synthesis..................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
aThe Research Design................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
The Research Locale .................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
The Tradition of Inquiry ............................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Data Gathering Procedure .......................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Data Analysis .............................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
The Participants/Key Informants and the Selection Technique .. Error! Bookmark not
defined.
CHAPTER 4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Case Presentation of the Participants ........................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Discussion of Gathered Data ...................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
CHAPTER 5 SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
SUMMARY ................................................................................................................ 43
FINDINGS ................................................................................................................. 44
CONCLUSION .......................................................................................................... 44
RECOMMENDATION ............................................................................................... 47
APPENDIX A ............................................................................................................................................ 48
APPENDIX B ............................................................................................................................................ 50
APPENDIX C ............................................................................................................................................ 53
CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Since the turn of century, the society has been more accepting to the sexual
minority compromised of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, etc.
(LGBTQ+). In a study conducted by the Pew Research Center (2013), overwhelming
majority of the LGBT adult respondents from 39 different countries said so. Another
study supports the claim and reveals that average level of acceptance for LGBTQ
people and rights have increased globally since 1980 (UCLA, 2018).
Societal acceptance is a feat the LGBT community has long been fighting for.
There have been various movements and mobilizations around the world advocating
equal treatment and opportunities for the marginalized sector. It is only by 1973 when
the largest psychiatric organization in the world—American Psychiatric Association
(APA)—removed homosexuality from their list of mental disorders.
With their rights being now recognized more than ever, there is a surge of
‘modern’ families and LGBT parenting. Mallon (2014) said that more and more
lesbians and gay men from all walks of life that are becoming parents. In fact,
scholars have suggested far before that the number of gay men and lesbians with
children has been increasing over recent years (Karolwitz, 1996).
Furthermore, LGBT parenting is a controversial topic having divided views
regarding it. Indeed, LGBT families have captured the interest of the general public.
There have been several cultural, political and religious debates over the past
decades on how families must be structured and function in order to perform a
productive role in society (Mezeym, 2015).
According to the study ‘Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT)
Families and Parenting’ by Gerald Mallon (2014), “LGBT people become parents for
some of the same reasons that heterosexual people do. Some pursue parenting as
single people and others seek to create a family as a couple; still other LGBT people
became parents in a heterosexual relationship.”
Families of this type are already being portrayed in media. It was shown in the
Netflix’s remake of ‘Dynasty’—a 1981 TV series—one of the main characters was
made homosexual who wanted to raise a child with his partner, who is also a man. In
the series, the gay couple asked help from a surrogate mother. Moreover, in the
context of the Philippines, there are also films that feature LGBT family. A 2016
award-winning film ‘Die Beautiful’ tells the story of transgender lead protagonist who
had a family with her boyfriend and adopted daughter. On the other hand, ‘Bekikang:
Ang Nanay kong Beki’ is about a gay who raised a foster child only for the child’s
mother to return. Furthermore, unconventional LGBT family comprised of a gay and a
lesbian who had their biological child was featured in a reality TV show ‘Pinoy Big
Brother’ in ABS-CBN. Having said this, these breakthroughs are manifestation that
the society is becoming more open in accepting diversity of family.
However, despite all the efforts and significant steps towards their inclusion,
clashing perception on the marginalized sexual minority remains. Though many think
that there is nothing wrong with being LGBT, many still believe that it is immoral and
unnatural (Buchman, 2011). In 2017, Cristobal inferred that the society only tolerates
LGBT rather than accept them. LGBT families do not enjoy the same rights as their
heterosexual peers. In a local context, same sex marriage is still baffled by the
majority given the religious atmosphere in the Philippines.
It is important to note that there are only few studies that made inquiry on its
impact to their children given the negative societal and judicial views regarding these
families.
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
According to Stacey & Biblarz as cited by Kosciw (2003), one of the major
claims opposing lesbian or gay parenthood is that the parents will dubject the children
to dispropriate risk such as social sigma and embarrassment of having a gay or
lesbian parents, or exposure to negative attitudes toward homosexuality. This claim,
however, was made without any evidence supporting or refuting it. Although it has
been said that the society has been more accepting to these sexually minorities, the
LGBT community continues to experience inequalities and homophobia. For the
students, studies shown that the homophobia present in schools has been shown to
cause students to report increased. Moreover, McLaughin (2010) observed that
LGBT individuals face disparities in media linked to societal stigma, discrimination,
and denial of their civil and human rights.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This study will redound the interest of the following:

LGBT families. This study will help LGBT families develop their parental-styles
that defy the societal judgement and oppression that remains despite the society
becoming more open to diverse identities
General public. To become more sensitive and aware to the issues faced by
the sexual minority.
Other researchers. The research will contribute to the large pool of ideas that
can change the world. This study will also serve as a future reference material or
literature to future studies related to this one.
Moreover the objective of this study are (1) to understand how LGBT families
strive in a heteronormative society and how it affects their day-to-day living; (2) to
discover how gay-parenting style affects the child's social, emotional and behavioral
aspect; and (3) to analyze how children with gay and/or lesbian parents perceive
social inequalities.
Furthermore, the researchers would like to make an inquiry how gay-parental
styles can affect LGBT families’ children given the heteronormativity in the society
and its impact.
SCOPES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY
The study focuses on the impact of gay-parental relationship to the child’s
experience in heteronormative culture. The researchers are going to determine how it
affects the social, emotional and behavioral aspect of a child. The study involved 3
participants from various places. It was conducted on March 2019.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
By the end of this research, the researchers aim to answer the following
questions:
1. What are the impacts of gay-parental attachment to the following
aspects of child’s life:
a) Social
b) Emotional
c) Behavioral
2. How do heteronormative culture surrounding gay parenthood
takes part in molding the child’s perception in their daily lives?
ASSUMPTIONS
The researchers in conducting the study assume that: 1) There is a direct
relation of the family’s dynamics to the child’s social, emotional, and behavioral
aspect, 2) Norms do not cater equal treatment to the families of this type most
especially to the children and are subjected to homophobic and derogatory remarks ,
3) LGBT headed families are still seen and behaved toward as ‘something new’ and
different.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
This study uses conceptual method in defining its variables.

Behavioral. The responses of an individual to adapt to his/her environment, including
the definition of personal goals, learning new skills, adjusting responses to specific
events.
Culture. Tyler (1871) defines culture as a "that complex whole which includes
knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals, law, customs, and any other capabilities and habits
acquired by [a human] as a member of society."
Emotional. Refers to one's ability to express or release one's inner feelings
(emotions). It implies an ease around others and determines one's ability to
effectively and successfully lead and express.
Gay-Parental. Refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people
raising one or more children as parents or foster care parents. This includes: children
raised by same-sex couples (same-sex parenting), children raised by single LGBT
parents, and children raised by an opposite-sex couple where at least one partner is
LGBT
Norms. Norms are ways of behaving that are considered normal in a particular
society.
Social. It is the relationship that is developed by individuals through interactions with
other people in the society.

CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
The chapter presents local and foreign related literature.
The only one predominantly Christian country in all Asia is the Philippines with
85 percent Christians (mostly Roman Catholic), 10 percent Muslim, and 5 percent
other religions (Russell, ND). The reason why Philippine society is often described as
religious, conservative and traditional which is also the cause of Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT)’s hold-back in their rights in the country.
In “The Global Divide on Homosexuality” global survey by Pew Research
Center, 17 out of 39 countries only had majorities that accepted homosexuality (Pew
Research Center, 2013). The study showed Philippines as one of the few gay-friendly
countries in the world but it does not support the LGBT community’s condition in the
Philippines. According to Ging Cristobal, Project Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific,
Outright Action International “We are considered second class or third class citizens.
We are tolerated not accepted. Tolerated is more of ‘We have to endure you… but
only up to here’.” (Gutierrez, 2017). Until now, the LGBT still pursue their rights and
passed proposals for years. In the Philippines’ law, homosexuals, same-sex sexual
intercourse, and openly join military service are the only legal, has an equal age
consent, only a single individual (LGBT) is allowed to adopt a child (UNDP, USAID,
2014). The current protection of rights of LGBT People in the Philippines is none,
there is still no legal protection nationally that is why they are still subject to
discrimination, sexual harassment and abuse in educational institutions, employment
and especially in the society (UNDP, USAID, 2014).
Since Philippines is a Christian country, Catholic populated, which holds on to
the quote from a retired bishop “God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Adam
nor Eve and Eve”, same-sex marriage is still a debated issue in the country
(Cunanan, Placido, and Sobrera, 2015). According to Chapter 1, Article 1 of
Executive Order No. 209, the Family Code of the Philippines 1987, Marriage is a
special contract of permanent union between man and a woman entered into in
accordance with law for the establishment of conjugal and family life. It is the
foundation of the family and an inviolable social institution whose nature,
consequences, and incidents are governed by law and not subject to stipulation,
except that marriage settlements may fix the property relations during the marriage
within the limits provided by this Code (www.chanrobles.com). In continuous to Article
2, No marriage shall be valid, unless these essential requisites are present” (1) Legal
capacity of the contracting parties who must be a men and a female; and (2) Consent
freely given in the presence of the solemnizing officer (www.chanrobles.com). For
these reasons, many same-sex couples marry in other countries and make a family
while other couples in the Philippines live-in and adopt a child without legal papers.
The homosexual families are still not fully respected and are still discriminated
in this generation.
HETERONORMATIVE CULTURE
Heteronormativity is the belief that people fall into distinct and
complementary genders (male and female) with natural roles in life. It assumes
that heterosexuality is the norm or default sexual orientation, and that sexual and
marital relations are most (or only) fitting between people of opposite sex. A
"heteronormative" view therefore involves alignment of
biological sex, sexuality, gender identity, and gender roles (Harris & White, 2018).
This system encompasses expectations of gender roles, identities and
sexualities deemed “natural.” The assumption is that everyone is cis-gender (more on
this later), heterosexual and performs traditional gender roles. People tend to do
activities and works depending on what a man or woman should do.
So basically, if you are biologically female, you identify as a woman. You also
like the opposite sex and are traditionally “feminine” and vice versa as to men.
Unfortunately, this concept has real consequences for members of the LGBT
community and for society as a whole. In as much as it causes limitation to what
gender roles must be practiced, where in fact this act must be paralyzed by reason of
it does not exercise equal rights relying on genders.
From childhood, we set standards that qualify men as strong providers and
women as vulnerable nurturers. Women who aren’t inherently nurturing and men who
show their emotions don’t fit into these boxes. As a result, society rejects and
ostracizes the individuals who don’t accept rigid social norms (Smith, 2017).
Furthermore, our perspective as an individual depends on what our social norm had
imposed without considering it to be right or wrong because it is already our nature.
Traditional gender roles operate under the idea that men and women are
different. In a scientific study, the behavioral neuroscientist Daphna Joel found that
“there is no one type of male brain or female brain.” The study showed that only .01
percent of the subjects have stereotypically male or female attributes in their brain.
Heteronormativity, however, pushes these false notions of differences between the
two sexes. Thus, it is our choice to accept or reject patriarchal gender norms
(Smith,2017).
In the Philippines, homosexuality is deigned by the many Filipinos. Equal
rights and respect for LGBTQs are exercised. In fact Mandaluyong, city in Manila
approved an ordinance to protect the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
people from discrimination, However, before this kind of acceptance had transpired,
the LGBT hardly accepted as they were called “salot sa lipunan,” “paminta,””tibo” and
many names to be called. They experienced hatred and discrimination that made
them feel isolated and burden.
The assumption that the only way to live to be considered “normal” by just
being heterosexual is the problem within itself. However, defining people who aren’t
heterosexual as “different” and less desirable goes beyond hurtful words. There is
real-world consequence.
SEXUAL ORIENTATION
Sexual orientation refers to the sex of those whom one is sexually and
romantically attracted. Categories of sexual orientation typically include attraction
between same sex (homosexual), opposite sex (heterosexual) and of both sex
(bisexual). The origin of sexual orientation is still debated and a hot issue though
today, most scientists agree that it is the result of complex interaction of biological,
environmental, and cognitive factors (Antolin, et. al., 2017). Because of
misunderstandings and culture, the unusual attraction and the people covering it has
been a subject to discrimination. Last November 2006, a meeting was held in
Yogyakarta, Indonesia after a group of human rights experts developed a principle
which was eventually adopted and called Yogyakarta Principle on the Application of
International Human Rights Law in relation to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.
Yogyakarta Principle made way to stop discrimination and such issues in accordance
to sexual orientation and gender identity.
PARENTAL ATTACHMENT
Parents play many different roles in the lives of their children, including
teacher, playmate, disciplinarian, caregiver and attachment figure. Of all these roles,
their role as an attachment figure is one of the most important in predicting the child’s
later social and emotional outcome (Benoit, 2004).
Moreover, a central argument made against same-sex marriage is that
children born into these marriages will be disadvantaged: they will grow up with
inappropriate gender role modeling, be bullied at school and suffer poorer emotional
well-being than their peers (Power, 2016).
Attachment is one specific aspect of the relationship between a child and
parent that is involved with making the child safe, secure and protected. Along to, it
made dispute on how gay parents can handle and be a role model for their child. The
fact that the lack of real father/mother figure from that moment it made concerns to
our society. Attachment is where the child uses the parent to serve as a secure base
from which to explore and, when necessary, as a haven of safety and a source of
comfort. It shaped some interests on how their gender roles as a parent will be
practiced and not affect the foundation of basis individuality of the child such as
physical, mental, social and spiritual.
In as much as this cases immense in later times some children do not know
they have an LGBT parent; coming out issues vary and some parents may never
reveal to their children that they identify as LGBT in accordance to of the fear and
some personal reasons to hide. Usually the children have some period of adjustment,
the fact knowing that they are in unusual situation, months to years of alteration
before understanding at the same time of acceptance. Children eventually realize that
having a LGBT parent won’t have a difference between their relationship, what still
matter is the unconditional love they have as a parent and child.
As data follows, homosexual couples are more committed because both of
them cannot produce their own child so they give their all in taking care of their
adopted children and try to be the best parents they could be. The couple also has a
plan and need to establish themselves before they can adopt kids, that's why there is
a harmonious relationship in the family because of the strong foundation (Tobias,
2013).
The review of three decades of peer-reviewed research by Melbourne
Children’s found children raised in same-sex-parented families did as well
emotionally, socially and educationally as their peers. The study’s findings will
undercut one of the arguments that have been used by the No campaign: that
children need both a mother and a father to flourish.
Attachment is not ‘bonding’. ‘Bonding’ was a concept developed by Klaus and
Kennell, who implied that parent-child ‘bonding’ depended on skin-to-skin contact
during an early critical period. This concept of ‘bonding’ was proven to be erroneous
and to have nothing to do with attachment (Brooks, 2012).
SOCIETY’S VIEW ON GAY PARENTS
Societal attitudes toward homosexuality vary greatly in different cultures and
different historical periods, as do attitudes toward sexual desire, activity and
relationships in general. All cultures have their own values regarding appropriate and
inappropriate sexuality; some sanction same-sex love and sexuality, while others
may disapprove of such activities in part (Murray, 2000).
Especially in relation to heterosexual aspects, different sets of assumption and
conclusion distinct institutions will take place given to individuals in accordance of
their gender, age, social status or social class.

Furthermore, homophobic attitudes in society can manifest themselves in the
form of anti-LGBT discrimination, opposition to LGBT rights, anti-LGBT hate speech
and physical attacks targeting (presumed) LGBT persons. In particular, the reason of
having different beliefs, religion, based on laws and in the social norms of our society.
Nevertheless, still many countries have also seen rising support for LGBT
rights in modern times (including the legal recognition of same-sex marriage, anti-
discrimination laws, and other such rights).
Traditionalist among each religion generally oppose the thought of
homosexuality likewise the prominent contradictory of social acceptance of
homosexuality. These people believe and indicate religious arguments to support
their views and stand.
Liberal currents also exist within most religions, and modern lesbian and gay
scholars of religion sometimes point to a place for homosexuality among historical
traditions and scriptures, and emphasize religious teachings of compassion and love.
Liberalists tend to show support and understand that homosexual also have the equal
rights and respect as the same given to heterosexuals.
Homosexual sex acts may be illegal, especially under sodomy laws, and
where they are legal, the age of consent often differs from country to country. In
some cases, homosexuals are prosecuted under vaguely worded "public decency" or
morality laws. Some countries have special laws preventing certain public
expressions of homosexuality (Mijnssen, 2013).

SOCIAL INTERACTION OF A GAY’S CHILD
Though numerous studies show that children with sexual minority parents tend
to be as well-adjusted as the children of opposite-sex couples, gay marriage
opponents continue to cite moral and religious objections concerning the fitness of
LGBT parents as well as the prejudice that their adopted children can be expected to
face (Vitelli, 2016).
There is also the question of how supportive schools are in general to these
students and their sexual minority parents. LGBT parents can also face stress over
how they interact with teachers and school boards who may contribute to the
negative environment their children encounter. We cannot deny that society still tend
to look for the differences we have than to normalize and attend someone as their
kind.
Here are some personal thoughts and experiences of some son/daughter of a
LGBT parents based on Buzfeed entitled Young People Share their Experiences of
Growing up with Gay Parents.
“I slowly started to come out to people [about my mom] after college. It went
from like a fourth- or fifth-date conversation to like a first-date conversation." – Dori
Kavanaugh
“For the past four years, I have been photographing and interviewing subjects
who were raised by one or more gay parents. Their experiences are wide-ranging.
Some were adopted, some conceived by artificial insemination. Many are children of
divorce. They were raised in urban areas, the rural Midwest, and all over the map.
They juggled silence and solitude with a need to defend their families on the
playground, at church and at holiday gatherings. Here are their stories." – Gabriela
Herman
Having LGBT parent may undeniably have an impact on a child’s perception
as they socialize in the real world on how other people will understand that they are
still normal though having a sort of different family setup.
Furthermore, as researches say mostly of the children having gay parent's, the
fact that they don't have a father figure technically, children tend not to be exposed to
things like a man usually do such as playing basketball and fixing some stuffs in our
houses. In schools, most of the children having in the same situation, boys having
lack of guidance in such activities like camping. This is an indication that somehow
there are still an effect on a child development without having a mother/father figure.
Moreover, somehow studies confirm kids raised in lesbian and gay families
grow up to be just fine, and basically the same as people who were raise in
heteronormative households.
None of the outcome measures showed any difference between families
headed by gay versus straight parents. Children’s behavior problems were no
different between these groups, whether behavior was rated by parents or teachers.
Parental stress and family functioning were no different between these groups. In
sum, there was no evidence whatsoever to suggest that children generally fared
better or worse depending on the sexual orientation of their parents. (Compton, 2016)
GENDER ROLES OF HUSBAND AND WIFE IN A HOMOSEXUAL FAMILY
According to a case study, in a family, the husband always has the high status
before the wife. Some of the traditional roles are as follows:
1. Males should be the primary breadwinners earning income for the family.
2. Females should be responsible for the care of the home and of the children.
3. Males should be dominant, authoritative and aggressive.
4. Females should be passive and submissive.
5. Males should be strong and self-sufficient.
6. Females should be weak and emotionally nurturing in their relationship with
others.
7. Males should manage the economic resources of marriage and family.
8. Females should manage the conflicts and smooth over the tensions between
family members.
In the conventional family in the Philippines, the husband is the primary source of
income and the wife runs the household (Cunanan, et al. 2015). However in the
family of same-sex couples, there is always a question of their roles, like which is the
husband or wife while in a family with a LGBT parent, there is always a doubt in their
role, of being a model as a husband or wife in the family. In the study of Natasha
Quadlin about partner characteristics and perceptions of responsibility for housework
and child care, she cleared the way of gay parents responsibilities. In the study, their
responsibilities are inclined to their characteristic, whether one is feminine or
masculine, feminine does wife what manages like household chores and child care
even though some have higher salary than the other but still the masculine one takes
part as the husband (Cowan, 2016).
HOMOSEXUAL PARENTS IN CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT
According to sociologists, heteronormativity is the belief that heterosexuality,
opposite sex attracts, is the only normal sexual orientation which organize people in
the society (Cummins, N.D.). Philippines practice hetero-normative culture, allowing
marriage for only men and women. Living in this kind of society, gay parents are
unusual and give a different concept to their family and parenting. Many
psychologists claim that early experiences especially those revolving around the
care-giver child interaction shape much of an individual’s personality later on. Parents
exercise a considerable influence upon the basic morals, values, and achievement
aspirations of their children (Jennings, N.D.). adolescence involves significant
transformations in almost every domain of functioning (Antolin, Ganongan, Nonatom
Ombac, & Roxas, 2017).
Many are concerned about the development of a child growing up in a
homosexual family but according to many studies, there is no difference living with
gay parents and heterosexual parents and are sometimes better than heterosexual
parenting. There are criticisms about the early exposure of children to homosexuality
and suffer confusion over their gender and sexual identity and are more likely to
become homosexuals themselves, that these parents might molest their children,
homosexual couples are unstable and having a homosexual family will hinder the
children to create relationship with peers (Stacey & Biblarz, 2001). Issues towards the
effects of sexual orientation of parents to the ethical, mental, emotional, and cognitive
development of children and adolescents. According to the study of Stacy and Biblarz
(2001), it results that homosexual parents are as just competent and effective as
heterosexual parents. According to Golombok and co- researchers, there are no
significant difference from these two types of parents, concluding that it was the
involvement of parents and not their sexual orientation which affects the child
development (Jennings, N.D.). According to these researches, they have found out
that lesbian parents tend to be better models in their children, especially to their
daughters, presenting them with the feminine and masculine side, forming a flexible
person. However, some argue that the studies are in favor of gay parents and are
biased.
SYNTHESIS
The researchers gathered data and information from several local and foreign
books, theses, website articles, blogs, journals and other published materials to gain
different related literature that were relevant and helpful in study.
LGBT community is widely ‘accepted‘ in the Philippines and is even often
portrayed in mass media. There are various shows showing their talents, pageants
and contests provided for them. But other than that, their concern about being alone
in their future is still troubling them. Philippines is recognized for being gay-friendly
country, but it can be seen that in the law, they are measly tolerated. It is important to
note that even their rights against discrimination are still not recognized. After all, the
Philippines is known as a Christian country. Furthermore, heteronormative culture

where they have this kind of belief that people fall into distinct gender (male and
female) that encompasses of roles and surpasses norms of our society. This were
homosexual have dealt difficulties on how they should transpire their identity and
sexuality as an individual. Including the belief of the culture with the expectations and
standard that had set. Heterosexuals, homosexuals and bisexuals are the categories
of sexual orientation, referring to the pattern of their sexual attraction to a person.
Sexual orientation is oftentaking as a synonym of gender identity but they are
different, sex refers to the biological sex, a male or female, while gender refers to the
social role acted upon, masculine or feminine.
Moreover, in the study of parental attachment, parents had played significant
purpose in the lives of their children. Parental attachment builds the relationship of a
parent and child. Eventually, throughout, this is set as the guide to build the child's
belief and personality. Parents influences how they can be strong and face the
challenges of the society can give. Somehow still, sexuality had a great impact on
everyone's perspective specially on the gender roles of how male and female should
achieve those. This study is about the acceptance and argument of the society in
homosexual couples with their children. These aspects is established by religion,
laws, norms and rights. Through diverse research it shows that having a LGBT parent
still has impact in child's individuality. Distinctively we cannot deny that society still
tend to look for the differences than to normalize. Although studies had proven that
none of the families of LGBT had contrast characteristic, they still interact and has the
same behaviour like everyone else.

In the conventional world, a normal family includes a man and a woman—but
in a homosexual family, even though there are still doubts—there is a husband and a
wife which makes them a family. In a homosexual family, homosexual to homosexual,
homosexual to bisexual, and homosexual to heterosexual, there still exists a role
which they follow in a family. In this family, they follow their masculinity or feminism
more than what their original sexuality is. Basing a masculine to be the father and the
feminine to be the mother.
Homosexual parents are accused of not raising their children properly because
of their uncommon family were always heard in the society. However, past
researches show otherwise. According to studies, children of heterosexual family
from of homosexual family are not actually different. In fact, it was found out that
there is an advantage in a homosexual family as the parents show two different roles
in a family, exposing a child in two different roles, them being able to learn from both
sides.
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
This chapter includes the methodologies and procedures the researchers used
in conducting the study and also narrated the process undergone by the study that
eventually leads to the findings. This chapter was organized into the following
sections: the research design, the research locale, the tradition of inquiry, the
instrumentation, the data gathering procedure, the data analysis and the
participants/key informants as well as the selection technique.
THE RESEARCH DESIGN
The researchers used a descriptive method which can provide information
about the naturally occurring health status, behavior, attitudes or other characteristics
of a particular group. This method is deemed significant to the study as
understanding the true meaning of parenting is important to the study of human
development, given the research evidence which proves that how parents raise their
children may cause positive and negative outcomes, from school and work success
to antisocial behavior and mental illness (Antolin et. al, 2017)
THE RESEARCH LOCALE
The researchers looked and searched for the most suitable informants
or participants to participate in the study. With this regard so, this study was
conducted at unlike cities- Rizal City, Taguig City and Quezon City as this is where
the informants reside in.
THE TRADITION OF INQUIRY
The researchers used a qualitative approach in the study. Qualitative
research is a type of social science research that collects and works with non-
numerical data and that seeks to interpret meaning from these data that helps people
to understand social life through the study of targeted populations or places
(Crossman, 2019). Qualitative methods are also effective in identifying intangible
factors, such as social norms, socioeconomic status, gender roles, ethnicity, and
religion, whose role in this research issue may not be readily apparent
With these features, the method is what best suits to the study since it is focused on
gender role portrayal, norms, and culture of a specific community. The researchers
used the advantages of qualitative research which are in-depth examination of
subject/situation/phenomena.
Instrumentation
The researchers gathered children with homosexual parents whom the
researchers referred to as LGBT, particularly gays or people involved in lesbian to
gay relationship; the study used the in-depth interview method in the generation of
data. The researchers will be the one to meet the informants and asked for their
profile and different background before the interview proper.
For the purposes of this research in depth interviews was used. In depth
interviews are personal and unstructured interviews, whose aim is to identify

participant’s emotions, feelings, and opinions regarding a particular research subject.
The main advantage of personal interviews is that they involve personal and direct
contact between interviewers and interviewees, as well as eliminate non-response
rates, but interviewers need to have developed the necessary skills to successfully
carry an interview (Fisher, 2005, Wilson, 2003).
As the researchers believed that this was best suited to the study because in-
depth interview did not require limiting the answers within the pre-set questions only.
And so, the researchers will be able to gather the smallest information that was
substantial to the study.
DATA GATHERING PROCEDURE
The researchers used an interview guide in the data gathering procedures.
The questions in the questionnaire was formulated based on the problem and
objectives of the study. The researchers obtained information regarding the impact of
gay-parental relationship to the child‘s experiences. The interviewers used an
interview guide in asking the informants. Even though there were sets of questions,
there were certain intervals where-in the researchers will follow up questions for
additional ideas from the interviewee that was useful to the study.
The set of questionnaires and the conduction of the study has undergone a
validation process in which it was examined for the proper execution of the research.
The permission letter of interview was given to participants as for formality, the
researchers interviewed them at their respective places. In the interview proper, the
interviewer used the advantage of audio recorders so that the interview could be
recorded and this was helpful for the researchers in interpreting the results of the
interview.
The gathered information was strictly confidential, and was used for academic
purposes only. In relation to the study, the researchers used a Case Study as a toll of
inquiry that was suitable for gathering information. Case study research excels at
bringing understanding a complex issue and extend experience or add strength to
what is already known through previous research. Also, it emphasized detailed
contextual analysis of a limited number of events or conditions and relationships. A
case study is an in-depth analysis of people, events, and relationships, bounded by
some unifying factor. (URERM, 2009).
DATA ANALYSIS
Content analysis is used to analyze the data which was gathered from
personal interviews. According to Moore & McCabe (2005), this is the type of
research whereby data gathered is categorized in themes and sub-themes, so as to
be able to be comparable. A main advantage of content analysis is that it helps in
data collected being reduced and simplified, while at the same time producing results
that may then measure using quantitative techniques. Moreover, content analysis
gives the ability to researchers to structure the qualitative data collected in a way that
satisfies the accomplishment of research objectives. However human error is highly
involved in content analysis, since there is the risk for researchers to misinterpret the
data gathered, thereby generating false and unreliable conclusions (Krippendorff &
Bock, 2008).
THE PARTICIPANTS/KEY INFORMANTS AND THE SELECTION TECHNIQUE
The researchers applied the purposeful sample method in selecting the key
informants of the study. Purposive sampling method is very useful for situations
wherein one needs to reach a targeted sample quickly and where sampling for
proportionality is not the primary concern. The participants will be selected after the
characteristics and criteria needed to be considered.
The researchers included a list of variables or criteria to be considered that the
informants might have possessed that influenced his knowledge on the research
area. The researchers will interview three participants to answer their interview
questions.
The following were the criteria:
1. The parents of the child should be self-confessed homosexuals in a relationship
2. The couple’s relationship should be open to public
3. The child must be either conceived or adopted
The particular purposive sampling method was used in the study is the
Snowball Sampling Technique. Snowball sampling is also known as chain referral
sampling. It is considered as a type of purposive sampling where participants with
whom contact had already been made using their social networks to refer to the
researchers and to other people who could potentially participate in or contribute to
the study. Using this approach, a few potential respondents was contacted and asked
where they knew of anybody with the characteristics that the researchers were
looking for in their research.
Snowball sampling is not a stand-alone tool; the tool is a way of selecting
participants and then using other tools, such as interviews or surveys. Having
identified those with the skills and/or knowledge or characteristics required, the
researchers approached those people to invite them to participate in an interview or
consultation process.
.
CHAPTER IV
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter presents the results of data analysis and a discussion of the
results. The result contains the demographic information of the participants and
discusses the unstructured interview conducted by the researchers. The last part
presents the discussion of the results found in the Impact of Gay-parental
Relationship to the Child’s Experiences in a Heteronormative Culture.
In this chapter the responses of the participants are recorded. The researcher
works through the interview questions in a systematic way by first, presenting the
interview questions and following them by a discussion of the responses from
interviewees. The discussion of the individual responses includes quotations from the
interview data and limited references to the literature review in order to substantiate
the points being made. It is followed by specific findings that emanate from the
responses to the interviews. In the final discussion of this section the researcher
attempts to summarized the overall findings from these interviews.
CASE PRESENTATION OF THE PARTICIPANTS
Case # 1: Merequiel F. Gallito
The always ‘ready’ scout and responsible child of her parents, Merequiel F.
Gallito, a 15-year-old girl who lives at 11 Bicol Bregade Tatalon, Quezon City with her
gay father and lesbian mother together with her 10 other siblings. She is and her
siblings are legitimate children of their homosexual parents. She is currently studying
at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School with her scholarship as a boy scout and
outstanding academic performance. She told the researchers that she usually spends
her time drawing something, going out at camping and if she has free time after
school, she helps her mother in selling foods outside their house as their source of
income. When asked about the dynamics of her family, she instantly felt comfortable
telling the researchers about her situation. She was all smile when the researchers
asked how is her relationship with her parent “Si mama at si papa ko po ay
kabaliktaran po ng kanilang ginagawa minsan si mama mas siya pa ‘yung
gumagawa ng gawain ng lalaki pero magaling din po siya sa gawaing
pambabae at si papa ay gawain ng babae pero may time pa rin po talaga na
nakikita namin magkapatid na nagiging ama naman po siya sa amin kaya ‘yung
relasyon namin maganda po at maaayos pa rin.” She started to have realization
of her family’s status when she was in grade 5 but it didn’t come off as shocking since
from the beginning of time, she was already made aware of it. There comes a time
that she remembers in her grade school days that a part of her was questioning the
actions of her father as too ‘girly’ but it was explained to her thereafter.
She further elaborated to the researchers that her father is the one who do the
household chores at home while her mother works for the family and it is their only
source of income. She told the researcher that it was just like a normal family set-up
to them since they are also providing everything for their needs and it was more a lot
of fun to have homosexual parents at home, they understand her and her siblings
more with their feelings, opinions, and secrets because they are open with each
other. “Pinapangaralan kami lagi kung ano yung mga tama at maling desisyon
na dapat naming gawin.” With that being said, her parents mold her into a person
with values and morals intact while growing up. And despite their situation against
from the hetero-headed family, she stressed out that “Sinasabi naman po nila na
maski ganun magiging magulang sila amin kahit anong sabihin ng mga tao.”
Mary as she told the researchers to call her by her given nickname of her
family and friends, stated her social life among her friends knowing that she has
homosexual parents “‘Yung mga kaibigan ko po okay lang naman po sa kanila.”
She didn’t receive derogatory remarks from people while interacting, however,
sometimes there were jokes being made but just for fun and a typical light
conversation because they are fine with the kind of situation she is into and doesn’t
see it as an abnormal practice to be raised. But there are times she was hesitant to
people mostly to whom she doesn’t know because she fears that she might be
judged but she clears it that there was no case like this that happened to her in the
past.
“Para sa akin wala naman pong pinag ka iba sa ibang pamilya kasi po
hindi naman po naging masamang role model mga magulang po namin sa
amin..”
The researchers then asked for her perception about the difference of her
family among the other hetero-headed family and if it is something that she views as
normal. For her, there was no distinct difference of the dynamics of her family to other
aside from the gender roles that they have at home and their gender preference
because the concept of being a parent was never affected by their sexuality.
Moreover, her parents were open to the idea of them choosing their own gender as
long as it is what they are and they are being true to themselves.
Case #2 Charmaine Nicole Dela Cruz
A 16-year-old volleyball player of Binangonan, Rizal named Charmaine Nicole
Dela Cruz, is a fellow classmate in elementary of one of the researchers who agreed
to be one of the participants of this study. She is called by her nickname ‘Charmie’ at
her school and at home. She is currently studying in Binangonan Catholic College in
which is a varsity of the volleyball team. She lives with her biological father who is a
gay man and were raised together with her male cousins whom she is mostly close
with. When asked about her relationship with her only both mother and father figure,
gay father, she didn’t blink an eye nor stutter addressing it to the researchers as she
finds her situation as normal and not different from the others. “Hindi naman siya
kakaiba, I mean, mas okay nga kasi mas na-eexpress ko ‘yung feelings ko sa
kanila mas naiintindihan nila ako.”
Given her situation, she expressed that before, when she was a kid, it was
hard to accept in their family the gender preference of her father as it was seen as
not normal but the time went by and their family started to retire from what they hold
against her father’s sexuality and came into accepting it. It was never mentioned to
her by her father that he was gay nor told her about it but she was made aware of it
since she was a kid since growing up, she often sees him wearing short shorts or the
typical feminine dress and the way he acts justify who he is, as what she said. She
also shared with the researchers the job of her father: they own a salon in
Binangonan, her father as the owner and it is their source of income. Regarding the
style of parenting and her father as a role model to her she said that “kahit hindi
sila, kahit hindi siya, uhm, tunay na lalaki, nadidisiplina niya ako nang tama as
a normal.”
She was never ashamed when people learned about her situation as she said
with all smiles, that she is very proud of what her father is, regardless of the sexuality.
It was a moment of silence when the researchers asked her social life, at first, she
stated that her current friends accept who she is and who her father is but when she
was in grade 1, she was bullied and called out for her father’s gender “sinasabi nila
everyday na, ‘Ah ‘yung tatay niya bakla’, ganyan. Pero hindi ko na lang
iniintindi kasi ‘di nila alam ‘yung way ng pagpapalaki ng tatay ko.” For the time
being, she would never care about it because her father taught her disciplines and to
always respect people even when they can’t respect you back. There were times that
she would be disciplined privately by her father when she does something wrong but
he never humiliated her in public nor raised a hand against her. ‘Disiplina. Pinalaki
niya akong disiplinado.’
‘kapag typical na family, buo—as in mother, father. Pero yung sa akin,
tumayong nanay, tatay wala akong kapatid kaya tumayo din siya bilang kapatid
ko, kaibigan.’
The researchers asked her about her own concept of family and if there were
any difference from it to the hetero-headed family and this was the statement she
gave to the researchers. She was an only child, she never had the mother figure
beside her when she was growing up, yes, she sees her biological mother but only
once in a while and it was only her and her father all throughout the process but it is
not a hindrance for her to grow up knowing what is wrong to what is right and having
a perception of a normal teenager. Later on during the interview, she was asked
about her own sexuality and she confessed that she is a bisexual which her father
was aware of since her relationship was never put into secret and she was only 7
years old when she realized her sexuality but it was only when she reached her
adolescence when she accepted who she really is and what she really wants.
Case #3 Denver Dignos
A sacristan serving in San Isidro Chapel, Hearts of Jesus, and Mary Catholic
Charismatic Community for five years. Denver Dignos is a 12-year-old student from
Good Shepherd Colleges who likes to draw and play mobile games. Currently
residing at North Daang Hari, Taguig City, he is living with his biological gay father.
When the researchers asked about his relationship with his fathe, he stated
that he and his father sometimes fight because of some misunderstandings and
mostly at time when he is being disciplined. “Minsan nagaaway kame ni papa pero
dahil iyon sa kakulitan ko po kaya napagsasabihan niya ako kasi minsan daw
pasaway po ako pero maalaga po si papa. Lagi rin po kaming umaalis, pasyal
pasyal po.” He said that maybe it is only his father’s sexuality that is different from
other family but regardless of that, he already accepted who his father is. When
asked about his father, he answered that his father is kind and he is comfortable with
him and that he does not find any roblem with his family. In shaping him while
growing up, he said that “Palagi lang po akong pinapaalalahanan ng tatay ko po
tungkol sa pakikitungo sa ibang tao at pag-aaral ko.” Even though they fight
sometimes, he said that he always learned from his father’s lectures.
He was not able to describe his social life with his friends as he stated that he
has only few friends but he mentioned that he has a good relation with his father,
“Maayos naman po ang pakikisama, para lang po na magtropa.”. Even though
he said he has few friends, he claimed that he did not have difficulties in approaching
other people and was not bullied in any form of bullying, “Hindi po ako nabubully,
naaasar lang po minsan.”
According to his perception in the difference of his family to the
heteronormative family, he repeated, “Wala pong pinagkaiba, ‘yung kasarian lang
po ng magulang ko.”. He continued that he is a male. He noted that he is glad
because of his father being caring, loving and responsible in raising him,
“Napakasaya ko po dahil may tatay akong bakler, sila pa nga ‘yung mas
responsable e.”
DISCUSSION OF GATHERED DATA
Figure 1. Visual Representation
Statement of the Problem number 1 is constituted by questions connected to
the impact of parental attachment to the following aspect of the child’s life: social,
emotional and behavioral aspect. While a child is growing up, and continuously being
shaped with continuous interaction in its surrounding, the child’s parents play the
most vital role in their lives. In fact, it was even stressed by Benoit (2014) that these
roles include being a teacher, playmate, disciplinarian, caregiver and attachment
figure. Of all these, their role as an attachment figure is one of the most important in
predicting the child‘s later social and emotional outcome. The three participants’
responses showed undeniable similarity to each other.
At their young age, they do not perceive homosexual parenting as indifferent
or anything wrong. What matters are their connection and the manner they were
raised—how their social, emotional, and behavioral aspects were nurtured. The
question regarding the context within their relationship among their parents elicited
the following statements from the informants:
 Si mama at si papa ko po ay kabaliktaran po nang kanilang ginagawa
minsan si mama mas siya pa ‘yung gumagawa ng gawain ng lalaki pero
magaling din po siya sa gawaing pangbabae at si papa ay gawain ng
babae pero may time parin po talaga na nakikita namin magkapatid na
nagiging ama naman po siya sa amin kaya yung relasyon naming
maganda po at maaayos pa rin.
 Minsan nagaaway kame ni papa pero dahil iyon sa kakulitan ko po kaya
napagsasabihan niya ako kasi minsan daw pasaway po ako pero maalaga
po si papa. Lagi rin po kaming umaalis, pasyal pasyal po.
 Hindi naman siya kakaiba, I mean, mas okay nga kasi mas na-eexpress ko
‘yung feelings ko sa kanila mas naiintindihan nila ako.
Social Aspect
It is a common contention that children of these same-sex unions and/or
relationships will be disadvantaged: they will grow up with inappropriate gender role
modeling and are expected to be bullied at school. Moreover, it is supposed that they
will suffer from poor emotional well-being compared to their peers (Power, 2016). The
LGBT community up to this date continues to be discriminated. Now more than ever,
the sexual minority is raising their flag higher than ever and is now paving their way to
acceptance, and just and equal grant of rights. This, however, contrasted with the
participants’ answers.
All three participants said that they do not experience bullying however all
three of them have experienced being teased around by their friends. Moreover, only
one of them had a background of verbal bullying back in their early childhood days.
From it the researchers could infer that slowly, the heteronormative culture is retiring.
 ‘Pag yung mga kaibigan ko po okay lang naman po sa kanila maski sa buong
pamilya po namin pero minsan may asaran po.
 Hindi po ako nabubully naaasar lang po minsan.
 Nung una, elementary ako. Grade 1 nabubully ako sa school kasi sinasabi nila
everyday na, ‘Ah yung tatay niya bakla’, ganyan. Pero hindi ko na lang
iniintindi kasi ‘di nila alam yung way ng pagpapalaki ng tatay ko. (Ngayon) —
wala namang problema sa kanila kasi naiintindihan—naiintindihan naman nila
side ko about sa family ko. As in mas nagiging masaya kasi naeexcite sila
makita tatay ko everyday.
Having LGBT parent may undeniably have an impact on a child‘s perception
as they socialize in the real world on how other people will understand that they are
still normal though having a sort of different family setup. In socializing and interacting
with other people, the participants face no hardship in doing so. One said, on the
other hand, that it is quite difficult for her when it comes to strangers: she said, it is
not the fear of having homosexual parents but the feat of being rejected who does not
accept their family dynamics.
 Meron din po minsan kapag hindi ko pa po kilala kasi baka hindi nila tanggap
po pero yung mga close ko naman po hindi na.
 Hindi po pero po kasi, introvert po ako, hindi lang po talaga ako mahilig
makipa-usap agad sa ibang tao.
 No.
Emotional Aspect
Parents exercise a considerable influence upon the basic morals, values, and
achievement aspirations of their children (Jennings, N.D.). Moreover, somehow
studies confirm kids raised in lesbian and gay families grow up to be just fine, and
basically the same as people who were raise in heteronormative households. In the
review of peer-reviewed research by Melbourne Children‘s found children raised in
same-sex-parented families did as well emotionally, socially and educationally as
their peers. Thus, it does not matter who or what the parent is, it is how the parents
raise their children. None of the outcome measures showed any difference between
families headed by gay versus straight parents. It was confirmed by the informants
who stated that their parents’ lectures them to be better children.
 Pinapangaralan kami lagi kung ano yung mga tama at maling desisyon na
dapat naming gawin.
 Palagi lang po akong pinapaalalahanan ng tatay ko po

 Disiplina. Pinalaki niya akong disiplinado. Hindi yung hinahayaan niya ako na
lumabas ng bahay na sobrang gabi dahil lang sa paggagala. Ayaw niya ng
gan’on. Gusto niya pa rin lumaki ako nang maayos.
Other than that, they compared their parents to others; two said that they
prefer their family set up more than in the heterosexual family—while the other did
not think different of their family.
 Para sa akin wala naman pong pinag ka iba sa ibang pamilya kasi po hindi
naman po naging masamang role model mga magulang po namin sa amin.
 Napakasaya kopo dahil may tatay akong bakler, sila panga ung mas
responsable eh
 …para sa akin, mas okay yung pagpapalaki niya sa akin kaysa sa typical na
pamilya lang. - yung sa akin, tumayong nanay, tatay wala akong kapatid kaya
tumayo din siya bilang kapatid ko, kaibigan.
Behavioral aspect
It is important for the overall development of children that parents be present enough to
support them, and this support fosters confidence and growth in many areas. Here we will
explore the ways parents can impact the emotional and behavioral development of their
children (Murphy, 2014). That’s why it is already evident that children tend to have changes
in terms of traits and behavior considering the dissimilar setting as comprising of homosexual
parents with the different views and opinions of our society. It is manifested in the interviews
that children are likely to have the strong also an understanding mentality in a young age
depending on the given situation they are in. Proven enough that children tend to adjust for the
good of all just to be taken normal, in terms of handling the individuals which are not capable
of accepting and discerning the context of homosexuality. Majority of the development of
how they think and reason out, attitude as well prejudice are the big influence of parental
attachment itself which served as a guide where children believed to be right and wrong.
Based from the gathered data, gay parents had play a vital role in their child’s life wherein
they served as a friend, supporter, adviser and specially the protector which had a great impact
with the behavioral aspect of their child that derive from positive outcome that they are
assured with love and acceptance despite of differences. Moreover, A study investigating the
connection between parent’s investment and children’s competence suggests that the
emotional involvement of parents really does matter and affects the outcome of their child’s
emotional competence and regulation (Volling, 458).
 “Pinapangaralan kami lagi kung ano yung mga tama at maling desisyon na
dapat naming gawin.”
 “sinasabi nila everyday na, ‘Ah ‘yung tatay niya bakla’, ganyan. Pero hindi ko
na lang iniintindi kasi ‘di nila alam ‘yung way ng pagpapalaki ng tatay ko.”
 “Palagi lang po akong pinapaalalahanan ng tatay ko po tungkol sa pakikitungo
sa ibang tao at pag-aaral ko.”
Statement of the Problem number 2 is composed of question connected to the
question on the role of heteronormative culture that surrounds gay parenthood in
molding the child’s perception in their daily lives. As stated by Harris & White (2018)
in an article, heteronormativity is the belief that people fall into distinct and
complementary genders (male and female) with natural roles in life. It assumes that
heterosexuality is the norm or default sexual orientation, and that sexual and marital
relations are most (or only) fitting between people of opposite sex. A
"heteronormative" view therefore involves alignment of biological sex, sexuality,
gender identity, and gender roles. In raising a child, the concept of a normal family
that is interrelated to the norm of heteronormativity which is between a man and a
woman, husband and wife, male and female idea of a mother and father figure. This
system of familial concept encompasses expectations of gender roles, identities and
sexualities deemed ―natural. However, this concept has real consequences for
members of the LGBT community and for society as a whole. In as much as it causes
limitation to what gender roles must be practiced, where in fact this act must be
paralyzed by reason of it does not exercise equal rights relying on genders.
According to Stacey & Biblarz (2001), many are concerned about the
development of a child growing up in a homosexual family but according to many
studies, there is no difference living with gay parents and heterosexual parents and
are sometimes better than heterosexual parenting. There are criticisms about the
early exposure of children to homosexuality and suffer confusion over their gender
and sexual identity and are more likely to become homosexuals themselves, that
these parents might molest their children, homosexual couples are unstable and
having a homosexual family will hinder the children to create relationship with peers.
However, in the interview conducted by the researchers and as of the results
gathered, the responses of the children with homosexual parents contradicts the
statement made by Stacey & Biblarz, with their answers as:

 Isang babae because ‘yun naman po kasi ako kasi nasa amin naman po ‘yun
kung anong gusto namin ng mga kapatid ko. At tanggap po nila mama kung
ano kami o kung ano gusto naming maging.
 Tanggap ni dad kung ano ako at para sakin hindi yung pagiging bakla niya
‘yung nakaapekto sakin kasi lumaki rin ako kasama mga pinsan kong lalaki.
 Masculine lalaki po. Isang po akong lalaki – hindi naman po ako naapektuhan
sa kung ano si papa kasi pinalaki naman niya po ako nang maayos.
For the interviewees, it was never a problem to them in having homosexual
parents in identifying themselves in the gender spectrum. In a study conducted by
Compton (2016), none of the outcome measures showed any difference between
families headed by gay versus straight parents. As well as the children’s behavior
problems were no different between these groups, whether behavior was rated by
parents or teachers. Parental stress and family functioning were no different between
these groups. In sum, there was no evidence whatsoever to suggest that children
generally fared better or worse depending on the sexual orientation of their parents.
The two participants are studying in a Catholic school while the other one is a
sacristan in which these places are highly disregarding the belief of same sex
marriage or the idea of being a homosexual as they uphold the holy bible that states
“God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Adam nor Eve and Eve.” Though as
stressed by Vitelli (2016), numerous studies show that children with sexual minority
parents tend to be as well-adjusted as the children of opposite-sex couples, gay
marriage opponents continue to cite moral and religious objections concerning the
fitness of LGBT parents as well as the prejudice that their adopted children can be
expected to face. It shows that the three informants didn’t have these struggles at
school and even at church since it was evident that the way this children were raised
didn’t affect them as a person, they don’t possessed bad attitudes towards other
people and respect was taught to them at a young age – simply put into words that
their values and morals was mold despite the role that their parents play in their lives.
CHAPTER V
SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter presents the research summary, findings, conclusion and policy
recommendation and recommendation to future researchers.
SUMMARY
The researchers used an interview guide in the data gathering procedure. The
questions in the questionnaire were formulated based on the problem and objectives
of the study. The researchers obtained information regarding the impact of gay-
parental relationship to the child‘s experiences. The interviewers used an interview
guide in asking the informants. Even though there were sets of questions, there were
certain intervals where-in the researchers gave follow-up questions for additional
ideas from the interviewees that were useful to the study.
The set of questionnaires and the conduction of the study underwent a

validation process in which it was examined for the proper execution of the research.
The permission letter of interview was given to participants as for formality; the
researchers then interviewed them at their respective places. The three participants
were from Taguig, Manila, and Binangonan, Rizal, respectively.
In the interview proper, the interviewer used the advantage of audio recorders
so that the interview could be recorded and this was helpful for the researchers in
interpreting the results of the interview. The gathered information were strictly
confidential, and were used for academic purposes only. In assessing the gathered
data, the researchers used case study as a toll of inquiry.
The researchers initially planned to interview the parents of the child to ask
their own perception in regards to the subject issue but due to conflicting schedules,
some complicated circumstances, and the relevance of the study, the researchers
weren't able to conduct it. The researchers also encountered hindrances regarding
the places of the participants, as each of them were located separately from each
other—at unlike cities.
FINDINGS
This study titled GAY-PARENTAL RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHILD’S
EXPERIENCES IN A HETERONORMATIVE CULTURE manifested that there is no
impact the parent’s sexuality put upon how the child perform and interact in physical,
mental and social aspect. It was established that parent’s gender has nothing to do
on how the child was raised and nurtured.
CONCLUSION
This research investigated the parental attachment of children of homosexual
parents and how it affects the children’s development. The researchers hypothesized
that there is a direct relation of the family’s dynamics to the child’s social, behavioural
and emotional aspect. Aimed to address why and how norms do not cater equal
treatment to the families of this type, the researchers made three prior assumptions
that are aligned with how the society sees and perceive the LGBT: 1) There is a
direct relation of the family’s dynamics to the child’s social, behavioral and emotional
aspect, 2) Norms do not cater equal treatment to the families of this type most
especially to the children and are subjected to homophobic and derogatory remarks ,
3) LGBT headed families are still seen and behaved toward as ‘something new’ and
different.
Based on the researchers analysis, the parent/s' sexuality shows no significant
correlation with the child's outcome with regard to his or her development. Rather, it
was found out that the manner they were raised--considering the parenting style and
attachment—serves as the greater determinant of the child's development. Even so,
all participants said that their parents instill them proper values and discipline. The
researchers acknowledge that parents play a huge part in shaping what the children
would be in the future.
It is important to note that the participants perceive homosexual parenting
normal and indifferent from heternormative parenting. In today’s context where
cultural and social norms dictate the ascendency of heterosexual families,
groundbreaking discovery was unveiled: heterenormative is in the state of being
defied. There exist the concept of a ‘normal’ family which is between a man and a
woman, husband and wife, male and female idea of a mother and father figure.
However, it was found out that the children themselves receive no intimidation,
homophobic derogatory remarks and actually receive fair treatment from their peers
and community as well (based from the participants’ perception) contrary to what the
researchers assumed prior the study.
Moreover, it is also proven wrong that LGBT families are seen as ‘something
new’ and different. Previous studies show that there is no distinct difference between
living with gay parents and heterosexual parents: in fact, gay parents are more often
than not better than traditional hetero family. Considering the participants' perception,
the children of gay parents believe that their parents are better parents compared to
traditional hetero dynamics.
To sum up, the researchers came up with the following conclusions: 1) the
society is making progress in defying heteronormativy in the field of familial
dynamics; 2) there is no significant impact the parents’ gender put on the child’s
social, emotional and behavioral development but rather the outcome rest upon but
not limited to the parenting style and attachment; and 3) LGBT headed families are
past being left out and are now in the state of inclusion.
This research solely depends on the inputs provided from the children’s
perception. It may or may not be empirically objective and applicable to the whole
population of LGBT families. These findings cannot be be generalized thus the
researchers believe that further studies in this field must be done to discover and
understand the phenomenon deeper—whether homophobia is not really present or if
there are still micro-aggressions that are concealed.

RECOMMENDATION
Based on the findings and conclusion of the study, the researchers came up
with ample of recommendations. First and most importantly, the researchers
advocate continuous LGBT awareness campaigns to defy and smash
heternormativity and cultural and social norms that are socially constructed only. With
this, it will pave way for the normalization and inclusion of the marginalized gender.
Now more than ever, furthermore, the researchers would like to push for the
legalization of adoption of same-sex couples, and their union. In today’s context, the
LGBT community is deprived of right to adopt and nurture a child. Through this study
backed by the data gathered, the researchers would like to make it clear that
homosexual parenting is indifferent from hetero-dynamic families.
On the other hand, the researchers would like to add this study to the pool of
knowledge existing regarding and relating gay-parental attachment and
heteronormativity. The researchers recommend the future researchers to continue
the study using different method in investigating the phenomenon of gay-parental
attachment and its impact on child’s development. Using different variables and wider
sampling size, it will be a great help to the academe and to the society. The
researchers also recommend facilitating an in-depth study regarding
heteronormativity to assess where the society is standing and heading today in the
issue of homosexuality and further develop concepts regarding it.

APPENDIX A
APPENDIX B
RESEARCH INTERVIEW GUIDE QUESTIONS
I. Profile
1. What is your name?
2. How old are you?
3. Where do you live?
4. Are you currently studying?
5. What are you hobbies? Your favorite things to do every day?
II. Perception in Family
1. How would you define your relationship with your parents?
2. What were your realizations with the dynamics of your family?
3. How does it feel to you having homosexual parents?
4. How do you see your parents?
5. How do they help you in shaping you in your physical, emotional and cognitive
aspect of your life while growing up?
II. Social life
1. Can you describe your social life among your friends and family?
2. Did you have difficulties in interacting with people given your situation?
3. Did you experience bullying in school, social media platform or in public places
once they learned that you have homosexual parents?
4. Follow up: How do you cope up with these statements made against you? Have
you experienced bullying in any means (physical, verbal, cyber)?
II. The child’s perception
1. What do you think is the difference of your family from a typical hetero-headed
families?
2. How do you identify yourself in the gender spectrum?
3. Can you share your experiences in your society given your situation?
PREPARED BY:
Diaz, Airish B.
Mejorada, Samantha Nicole A.
Pepito, Perla Joy B.
Raymundo, Allan Jr.

APPENDIX C

Gay Parental

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POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES 1

GAY-PARENTAL RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHILD’S EXPERIENCES IN A

In partial fulfillment of the requirements in Practical Research 1

MEJORADA, Samantha Nicole

PEPITO, Perla Joy

RAYMUNDO, Allan Jr.

Christ Michael Entienza, MPsy, RPm

provided us with our needs in fulfilling this study.

not be possible without them.

Second, profound thanks to the unending assistance of our research adviser

greatly helped the study.

To the researchers’ families, endless appreciations to you for helping them

CHAPTER 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

minority compromised of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, etc.

(LGBTQ+). In a study conducted by the Pew Research Center (2013), overwhelming

the largest psychiatric organization in the world—American Psychiatric Association

(APA)—removed homosexuality from their list of mental disorders.

children has been increasing over recent years (Karolwitz, 1996).

Furthermore, LGBT parenting is a controversial topic having divided views

productive role in society (Mezeym, 2015).

According to the study ‘Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT)

became parents in a heterosexual relationship.”

Netflix’s remake of ‘Dynasty’—a 1981 TV series—one of the main characters was

mother to return. Furthermore, unconventional LGBT family comprised of a gay and a

the society is becoming more open in accepting diversity of family.

majority given the religious atmosphere in the Philippines.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

to dispropriate risk such as social sigma and embarrassment of having a gay or

lesbian parents, or exposure to negative attitudes toward homosexuality. This claim,

LGBT community continues to experience inequalities and homophobia. For the

cause students to report increased. Moreover, McLaughin (2010) observed that

LGBT individuals face disparities in media linked to societal stigma, discrimination,

and denial of their civil and human rights.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study will redound the interest of the following:

becoming more open to diverse identities

the sexual minority.

literature to future studies related to this one.

Furthermore, the researchers would like to make an inquiry how gay-parental

and its impact.

SCOPES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The study focuses on the impact of gay-parental relationship to the child’s

experience in heteronormative culture. The researchers are going to determine how it

participants from various places. It was conducted on March 2019.

1. What are the impacts of gay-parental attachment to the following

aspects of child’s life:

2. How do heteronormative culture surrounding gay parenthood

takes part in molding the child’s perception in their daily lives?

The researchers in conducting the study assume that: 1) There is a direct

This study uses conceptual method in defining its variables.

acquired by [a human] as a member of society."

Emotional. Refers to one's ability to express or release one's inner feelings

(emotions). It implies an ease around others and determines one's ability to

effectively and successfully lead and express.

Gay-Parental. Refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people

raised by same-sex couples (same-sex parenting), children raised by single LGBT

Social. It is the relationship that is developed by individuals through interactions with

other people in the society.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The chapter presents local and foreign related literature.

85 percent Christians (mostly Roman Catholic), 10 percent Muslim, and 5 percent

Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT)’s hold-back in their rights in the country.

In “The Global Divide on Homosexuality” global survey by Pew Research