Gay or lesbian residents in Virginia have experienced a wide range of changes in the past year as the U.S. Supreme Court legalized marriage on a national basis. While that was a big step toward marital equality for same-sex couples, how does that correspond to the country’s general view on same-sex marriage? A new study takes a look at how this has shifted since the early part of this century.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released results from its National Survey of Family Growth and views on same-sex couples were included. The study includes data from 2011 to 2013. Overall, it appears that many U.S. residents have more favorable views toward gay and lesbian couples now than they did in 2002. These views include the general acceptance of same-sex couples as well as acceptance of same-sex couples as parents.
Females and males between the ages of 15 and 44 were asked about their views on these topics. In 2002, 42 percent of females felt positive about same-sex couples. Jump forward to the new study and that number rose to 60 percent. Over 75 percent of those women now feel positive about same-sex adoptions compared to 55 percent in 2002. About half of male respondents were positive about same-sex couples but 68 percent were positive about same-sex couples adopting children.
Certainly gay and lesbian couples may be enjoying an improved social acceptance of their relationships and of their ability to be good parents. That, however, does not mean that all legal issues are completely ironed out. When problems involving a same-sex relationship arises, talking with an attorney may be helpful.
Source: The Washington Times, “Americans warm to gay marriage, sour on marriage, study finds,” Bradford Richardson, March 16, 2016
