Examining Social Workers' Placement Recommendations of Children with Gay and Lesbian Adoptive Parents

Abstract

Thousands of children are awaiting placement with adoptive families in the United States. However, agency practices in selecting appropriate families are slow to change, with gay men and lesbians often facing various barriers. As such, the decision-making model often used by child-placement agencies does not adequately consider the impact of the social workers' socialization factors and attitudes when making placement recommendations. In this article, the current theoretical model used in determining placements is critically examined and the fundamental determinants influencing social workers' placement recommendations are empirically examined from a social constructionist perspective. Using a path analysis, significant socialization factors are identified, potential implications for practice and policy are discussed, and questions for further research are posed.