Community and Family Studies HSC Enrichment Day 2010 Groups in Context Gay and Lesbian

Groups in Context: Gay and Lesbian Focus Question For TWO groups you have studied, assess the extent to which community structures assist in resolving conflict between the group and the wider society. (10 marks)

Groups In Focus Gay and Lesbian ‘Learn About’ Identifying specific need groups – Gay and Lesbian Legal and social definition Characteristics Needs Conflict between group and community interests

Social and Legal Definitions Legal Definition: As defined by the government or government body. Social Definition: As defined by societal attitudes and perceptions.

Overview Characteristics of the Gay and Lesbian group Examples Those who are same sex attracted. 44% state that they have been verbally abused (La Trobe University, 2005) Same sex marriages are not legal in Australia GLBT – gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender Tend to suffer more from mental health issues such as depression.

Gay and Lesbian Needs Identify the needs of the gay and lesbian group. S – SAFETY AND SECURITY H – Housing E – Education H – HEALTH A –ACCESS TO SERVICES S – Self Esteem S – SENSE OF IDENTITY E – Employment F – Financial Support SHEHASSEFSHEHASSEF

Needs Stimulus

GAY COUPLES CAN’T ADOPT KIDS Hopes of same sex couples being sanctioned to adopt children have been dashed by the government. After a lengthy committee inquiry which recommended adoption to be legal for gay couples, NSW Community Services Minister Linda Burney said the law would not be changed. She blamed a lack of consensus among committee members which she said reflected division in the community. “The committee was given examples of successful parenting and fostering by gay and lesbian couples and in these case studies, adoption provided permanence, stability and security so important to children” she said. “However, I am also aware that there are very deeply held, divergent views on this issue and that is why a decision on this matter will not be taken at this stage.” Daily Telegraph Friday 8 th January GAY COUPLES CAN’T ADOPT KIDS Hopes of same sex couples being sanctioned to adopt children have been dashed by the government. After a lengthy committee inquiry which recommended adoption to be legal for gay couples, NSW Community Services Minister Linda Burney said the law would not be changed. She blamed a lack of consensus among committee members which she said reflected division in the community. “The committee was given examples of successful parenting and fostering by gay and lesbian couples and in these case studies, adoption provided permanence, stability and security so important to children” she said. “However, I am also aware that there are very deeply held, divergent views on this issue and that is why a decision on this matter will not be taken at this stage.” Daily Telegraph Friday 8 th January 2010.

Focus Question For TWO groups you have studied, assess the extent to which community structures assist in resolving conflict between the group and the wider society. (10 marks) BOS VERB – ASSESS – Make a judgment of value, quality, outcomes, results or size Syllabus Points Other interesting information

Community Structures Conflict Community Structure How Does is Assist? How Well Does It Assist?