Work

Australian Social Work students’ Views Towards Same-Sex Parenting

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Despite majority public support for same-sex marriage in the 2017 postal plebiscite, there is ongoing concern about discrimination against same-sex attracted people, especially within social services. Understanding social work student views and how they align with social work values and ethics can inform service provision with same-sex parents. This study utilized an anonymous online qualitative survey of 136 social work students from four Australian universities. Results show general support for same-sex parenting, while also highlighting the existence of social work student views upholding or privileging heteronormativity, including regarding different-sex parents as better suited to raising children. These findings highlight a gap in social work education, underscoring the need for curricula that challenges heteronormativity and fosters inclusive practice, ensuring graduates are equipped to advocate for equity in diverse family contexts.

Source: LGBTQ+ Family An Interdisciplinary Journal

DOI: 10.1080/27703371.2026.2706755

Authors: Christos Floratos, Alankaar Sharma, Kate Saxton, Rhys Thorpe

Institutions: New South Wales Department of Health, Australian Catholic University, University of Wollongong, University of Southern Queensland

Language: English

Topic: LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Australian Catholic University