Coparenting and triadic interactions in lesbian and gay parent families: impact of internalised parenthood-related stigma.

Abstract

Aims: This longitudinal study examines how coparenting experiences in the family of origin influence family alliance in lesbian and gay parent families formed via assisted reproduction, and whether internalised parenthood-related stigma moderates these associations.

Methods: Using a longitudinal, multi-method design, 38 lesbian mother families through donor insemination and 36 gay father families through surrogacy were recruited, all with children (52.70% assigned female at birth) aged approximately 36 months at time 1 (T1) and 48 months at time 2 (T2), residing in Italy. At T1, parents reported family-of-origin coparenting experiences and internalised stigma through interviews. At T2, family alliance was assessed using the Lausanne Trilogue Play during triadic interactions. Linear regression models tested direct and moderated effects.

Results: Most lesbian and gay parent families demonstrated cooperative family alliances. Parents reporting more conflictual and less supportive family-of-origin coparenting at T1 showed poorer family alliances at T2. Internalised stigma moderated this association, with higher stigma levels intensifying the negative effects of conflictual family-of-origin coparenting experiences on current family alliance.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the impact of early family experiences and minority stress on family alliance in lesbian and gay parent families formed via assisted reproduction. Parenting interventions with these families should address unresolved family-of-origin issues and support parents in mitigating internalised stigma to promote cooperative family alliances. Advocacy efforts are essential to reduce stigma and promote inclusive policies for diverse families.