Attitudes towards same-sex parenting among Israeli heterosexuals: a moderated mediation model

The number of families comprised of lesbian or gay parents with children is growing worldwide. Studies have shown no differences between children of same-sex parents and heterosexual parents in mental health. However, studies have found negative attitudes towards same-sex parenting among the public. The current study examined heterosexual attitudes towards same-sex lesbian and gay parenting in Israel. In this quasi-experimental research design study, 845 participants read a vignette describing a same-sex couple raising their son, and answered questionnaires measuring homophobic attitudes, parental competence, and demographics. The study model and the hypotheses were examined through path analysis. In accordance with our hypotheses, homophobic attitudes were found to mediate the relationship between liberalism and familiarity with LGB, and perceived parental competence of same-sex couples. In addition, gender moderated the associations between homophobic attitudes and perceived parenting competence such that more negative attitudes were shown by male respondents towards male couples. Results are discussed in light of the special sociocultural context of Israel.