Research on these topics is relatively new, and many important questions have yet to be addressed. These studies include assessment of possible differences between children with gay or lesbian versus heterosexual parents as well as research on sources of diversity among children of gay and lesbian parents.
In this context, research studies on sexual identity, personal development, and social relationships among these children are then reviewed. Beginning with estimates of the numbers of such children, sociocultural, theoretical, and legal reasons for attention to their development are then outlined. This paper reviews research evidence regarding the personal and social development of children with gay and lesbian parents.