The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Report of the Task Force on the Family (Pediatrics, June 2003) is marred by the inclusion of a gratuitous section describing same-gender parenting as the only alternative “family” constellation to be devoid of internal problems. Notably, the Task Force Report admits to a lack of science, and cites articles already judged to be flawed and biased. In addition, the Report admits of no possible problems for the child inherent in this arrangement. This is despite clear statements throughout the remainder of the Report about the importance of stable mother/father marriages, and the risks for children inherent in single parent households, divorced families, stepfamilies, and grandparent-constituted families.

The American College of Pediatricians urges that the Task Force Report be withdrawn until due attention is given to the objections voiced by one-third of the Task Force members, and the section on same-gender parenting is rewritten to note the potential for harm, documented or postulated in the medical and social sciences literature.

December 15, 2004
Reviewed July 23, 2008

The American College of Pediatricians is a national medical association of licensed physicians and healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. The mission of the College is to enable all children to reach their optimal physical and emotional health and well-being. More information is available at www.BestforChildren.org.

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