This article explores the relationship between lesbian identity, social support
and lesbian mothers' ability to cope with the stress of a heterosexual and
homophobic environment. Interviews with 31 lesbian mothers revealed that
social support was obtained from a variety of sources, both lesbian and
nonlesbian. The women had strong, positive lesbian identities and were open
about their lesbianism, although selective about coming out. They had and
used stress-mediating resources and were successfully adapting to their social
environments. The implications for social work practice are presented.
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