A common way to define family is through blood relations between parents, children, and siblings.
Some families are formed outside this traditional structure. Queer parenting refers to the practice of creating a family unit without involving heterosexual couples. It can involve same-sex couples, polyamorous relationships, single parents, surrogate mothers, or any combination of these factors.
There are several alternative models of kinship that emerge from queer parenting practices. One model is the chosen family, where people intentionally create a new family unit rather than inheriting one based on biology. Chosen families may consist of friends who have decided to raise children together, roommates who become family due to shared living arrangements, or adopted children whose birth families cannot provide them with adequate care. In this model, the emphasis is placed on love and commitment rather than genetics.
Another model is the multi-generational family, where multiple generations live under one roof and share responsibilities for raising children. This model is especially common among LGBTQ+ individuals who were raised in non-traditional families themselves and want to create a similar environment for their own children. The extended family also provides support and guidance beyond what would be available in a nuclear family setting.
The third model is the blended family, which involves two separate households merging into one. This model often occurs when one partner has children from a previous relationship while the other does not. Blended families require communication and negotiation to ensure everyone's needs are met. They also offer opportunities for cultural exchange and diversity within the household.
There is the intentional community model, where groups of people come together to form a collective family. These communities often focus on sharing resources and caring for each other's needs, including childcare. This model can be particularly attractive to those seeking an alternative to traditional family structures or seeking to create a more equitable society.
Queer parenting practices offer many alternatives to traditional family models. Each approach highlights different values and priorities, such as chosen relationships, multigenerational connections, or communal responsibility. By exploring these models, we can reimagine how families function and challenge societal norms around gender and sexuality.
What alternative models of kinship arise from queer parenting practices?
The main model of kinship that arises from queer parenting practices is known as "intentional family. " This term refers to families that are formed through deliberate choices made by adults who want to create a bond based on shared values and goals rather than biological ties or legal obligations. Intentional families often include adoptive parents, foster parents, surrogates, and other nontraditional arrangements that are created outside of the traditional nuclear family structure.