Psychological and Relational Predictors of Parenting Intentions Among Gay and Lesbian Individuals: A Comparative Study and Implications for Counseling Practice

This study investigates psychological and relational predictors of parenting intentions among 216 gay men and lesbian women, using the theory of planned behavior and minority stress theory. Lesbian women reported higher parenting intentions than gay men. Logistic regressions showed distinct predictors: for gay men, age, dyadic adjustment, paternal care, and psychological distress; for lesbian women, age and dyadic adjustment. Findings underscore gender-specific pathways to parenthood and highlight the role of counseling practice in addressing psychological factors, relational dynamics, and structural barriers to support LGBTQIA+ clients’ reproductive aspirations.