Queer Kinships,Intentional Families: Defining and Exploring the Coparenting Alliance Model (CAM)

Abstract

As diverse family structures are increasingly prominent, the purpose of this study was to introduce the Coparenting Alliance Model (CAM) as a family framework. This qualitative research explored the lived experiences of five gay and lesbian individuals, coparenting children with a non-romantic partner, either homosexual or heterosexual. The aim was to gain insights into the interpersonal dynamics, logistical organization, challenges, and necessary skills involved in creating a cohesive unit focused on the well-being of the children. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the analyzed data uncovered themes clustered around three distinct phases in participants’ path to coparenting: the initial desire for children and negotiation of family form; the structuring of the coparenting alliance; and the ongoing management of daily life. The research implications can be of significance for understanding and improving the dynamics of non-romantic parents raising children together.

Keywords

coparenting alliance CAM paths to parenthood LGBTQ diversity IPA

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