Sociology 1201: Worksheet--"Daddy and Papa" PBS, June 2003

1. Describe the following gay couples or individuals and how they came to be adoptive or foster parents:

a. Johnny Symons (the film-maker), partner William, and sons, Zachary and Kenyon

b. Phillip Hinberg and Jim Ballantine and daughter, Fanny

c. Doug Houghton and son, Oscar

d. Kelly and ?

2. What were your initial reactions to these families? What did you think about the parenting you saw?

3. How do the children seem to be doing?

4. What do you think should be the qualifications for becoming a parent (if any)?

Sociology 1201: Groups--"Daddy and Papa"

1. What do you think are the special challenges for children growing up with two gay men as parents? Do you think it would be harder to have two gay fathers raising you than two lesbian mothers, and if so, why?

2. In what ways do you think the parenting experience would be the same for these men as for parents in more traditional families, and in what ways would it be different?

3. What do you see as the essential features that make a group of people into a "family?"

4. What are the fears and concerns that lead some groups, organizations, and indviduals to oppose adoption or foster parenting for gays and/or lesbians? Do members of your group share any of those fears and concerns?

5. In my INI Sociology 1101 class I use a video called "We Are Family," that shows gay and lesbian fathers who have obviously been chosen because they are such good examples of great parenting. Do you think that happened here? What are the pros and cons of showing gay or lesbian parents facing the same disruptions and conflicts that characterize many heterosexual couples?

Extra question: Do you think there are any universal features of good parenting? If so, what would be on your list, and why?