Queer Theory, Intersectionality, and <scp>LGBT</scp>‐Parent Families: Transformative Critical Pedagogy in Family Theory

Abstract

We discuss how to move the family studies field and the teaching of family theories from covering the “facts” that LGBT ‐parent families exist to a critical conversation that incorporates conceptual tools, language, and theoretical insights from queer and intersectionality theories. We attempt to move this conversation by presenting a model of curricular change for teaching family studies theories courses that shifts from LGBT ‐parent exclusion, compensatory addition of LGBT ‐parent families, and LGBT ‐parent families as disadvantaged to a focus on queer and intersectional scholarship and a continuing postmodern paradigm shift. We discuss how instructors can engage in critical feminist‐oriented self‐reflexivity and transformational pedagogy.