Same-Sex Relationship Dissolution and Divorce

As of June 2015, same-sex marriage is a right nationwide in the United States, which means legal same-sex divorce is also a reality across the nation. As many same-sex couples have children, it is likely that at least some children will experience the dissolution of their parents’ relationship. Little research has examined outcomes for children who experience their same-sex parents’ relationship dissolution. In considering these children’s outcomes, this chapter draws parallels to the literature on heterosexual parent divorce and child outcomes. It reviews data on same-sex relationship dissolution and divorce, particularly among same-sex couples who are parents. It also highlights issues unique to same-sex parents and their children who experience divorce. It discusses qualitative and quantitative research, including reflections on relevant longitudinal studies conducted by each author. It acknowledges challenges of conducting research on same-sex relationship dissolution and divorce. Finally, it discusses implications for policy, practice, and research.