A symposium has presentations and discussion by 3-4 experts on a particular topic. A discussant integrates and summarizes the papers, develops implications for policy and practice from the research, and facilitates audience discussion.

Papers listed below are included in this session.

Chair: Stephen T. Russell

Summary
Parenthood is a typical life course aspiration shared by many, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals. Yet, LGBT adults are less likely than heterosexual counterparts to be parents. When examining this disparity, it is important to consider the socioecological and historical contexts in which sexual and gender minorities (SGM) formulate their desire for parenthood and the likelihood they will be able to pursue parenthood. This present symposium draws from four studies of SGM individuals, as well as children of SGM parents. The studies used mixed methodology to analyze future parenting aspirations of SGM individuals, consider the development of parenting aspirations over the lifespan, and identify key considerations for community practice and clinical support for SGM populations. Interventions aimed at increasing accessibility to parenthood for SGM individuals who choose to pursue it must consider the socioecological development of parenting identity across the lifespan of SGM populations.

Objectives

• To analyze future parenting aspirations of SGM individuals
• Consider the development of parenting aspirations over the lifespan,
• Identify key considerations for community practice and clinical support for SGM populations.

Subject Codes: parenting, family formation, heteronormativity
Population Codes: LGB+, transgender, trans*, diverse but not representative
Method and Approach Codes: regression: linear (simple, multiple, hierarchical), qualitative methodology, thematic analysis