What are some of the limitations of existing research into LGBT families at the start of the 21st century? What kinds of new research would be needed to fill gaps in social-scientific knowledge?

Some of the limitations of existing research into LGBT families at the start of the 21st century include a lack of longitudinal studies that track the experiences of LGBT families over time, limited representation of diverse subgroups within the LGBT community, and a reliance on small, non-representative samples. Additionally, much of the existing research has focused on the experiences of same-sex couples, neglecting the experiences of transgender and non-binary individuals within family structures.

To fill gaps in social-scientific knowledge, new research would need to prioritize longitudinal studies that capture the experiences of LGBT families as they evolve over time. This would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and successes that LGBT families face. Additionally, there is a need for research that includes diverse subgroups within the LGBT community, such as people of color, individuals with disabilities, and those from different socioeconomic backgrounds. This would help to capture the full range of experiences within LGBT families and avoid generalizations based on a narrow subset of the population.

Furthermore, new research should also explore the intersectionality of identities within LGBT families, including the experiences of transgender and non-binary individuals, as well as the impact of societal attitudes and policies on family dynamics. By addressing these gaps in research, social scientists can gain a more nuanced understanding of LGBT families and provide more targeted support and resources for this diverse and often marginalized population.