Utilizing Proper Data and Same-Sex Parenting

Hey everyone! 

So real quick, if you missed my “about me” page, I am going to be writing this weekly for my Family Relations Class.  It has been absolutely fascinating for me so far to learn about how a family will best function.  I do understand though that often times topics about families are kind of controversial, which I understand.  However, even after just a couple of weeks of taking this class, I am quickly realizing that if we are all quiet about these controversial subjects, then we will never really be in a position to learn and uplift each other.  With that being said, I hope that you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts with me in the comments.  I would ask that everything is kept respectful for the sake of my own sanity.  However, I don’t want you to feel shy to respond simply because you may disagree with my points.  Lets all be civil here 😊

               So I don’t have an insane amount to share with you all right now, but I do want to discuss what we have been covering over this last week.  We have been focusing mainly on the importance of using reliable resources (when researching hot topics) and how to portray those points to others who may disagree.  While doing this, we have also been learning about the law that was passed a couple years ago regarding same-sex marriage, most specifically on how this class of matrimony affects children raised in this specific environment. 

               I found it interesting that during the passing of this law, many points were brought up to the supreme court regarding the position of the APA (American Psychological Association).  As we dove into their positions though (very pro-same sex marriage) I realized that many of their points were flawed, not in principle, but how they were based in research.

               First off, most of their positions were based in studies that had no control group (they wouldn’t compare the children being studied to those in traditional family settings).  Doing this, provided biased results, claiming that children raised in same-sex lead families are developing normally.  The other studies that did have a “control group” were comparing the children to split families, where children (according to other studies) will struggle developmentally while missing a parent. 

               Another issue with their studies was that they were focusing more on the parents and their parenting styles instead of how the children were being affected in the long run.  Doing this was a blatant lie in their studies where they were claiming there are little to no negative effects on children who are raised in this situation.  They effectively changed the content of their study, by focusing on the parents, while claiming that it expresses truths about the children’s direct and long term development when it clearly did not. 

               There were many other flaws in their studies, small sample groups, no proper testing/examinations, biased authors, etc., and listing them all would last a full essay.  The main point that I am essentially trying to make is that when you are arguing a point (on either side of the spectrum of any argument) make sure to use only reliable sources.  Be critical in who you trust.  Doing so will help you come across as being much more educated and able to express your opinions.