Perceptions on Becoming a Parent and Forming a Family: A Qualitative Exploration of the Social Experiences of Japanese Women with Same-Sex Partners

Abstract

Currently, there are no legal provisions for same-sex partnerships in Japan. Despite a gradual rising awareness of nontraditional partnerships and family forms, the parenting and family formation intentions of same-sex couples and their experiences of living as nontraditional families in Japanese society are still rarely studied. This study qualitatively explored the social experiences of Japanese women with same-sex partners regarding parenting intentions and family formation. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 women aged 30–40 years with same-sex partners. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. A central theoretical category that emerged was “Sexual minority self is recalled through the child’s contact with society.” The subcategories revealed that participants both with and without children perceived becoming a parent and forming their own family positively. However, being a parent or forming a nontraditional family implied an increased exposure of their identities as sexual minority individuals through contact with the society to which they aspired to belong. Parenting and family formation are perceived by these women both as a bridge that connects them with the society and as a psychological strain that makes them rediscover the difference. Education on family form diversity should support these women’s well-being.