Edited Research Paper G3

i
PANGASINAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Lingayen, Pangasinan
Effects of Same-Sex Marriage and Child Adoption on Learners in the

Philippines
S.Y. 2022-2023
A Research Study
Presented to Jocel A. Tamondong, MAEd,
English 10 Teacher In
Pangasinan National High School
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements in Practical Research
Under 10-MATAPAT
Aquino, Camela A.
Calimlim, Shema Yvanna F.
De Jesus, Ariannely Jane
Fabricante, Keisha Mae T.
Geminiano, Raven Rey S.
Guarin, Neil Tyrone T.
Jose, Geraldine M.
Ocreto, Johnmark B.
Quimson, Bernabe John V.
Zabala, John Steven R.

Researchers
ii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The researchers would like to extend their sincerest gratitude and deepest
appreciation to the succeeding people and peers, who, in one way or another, willingly
helped them in bringing life into this research work.
Ms. Jocel A. Tamondong, our English Teacher and Research Adviser, who
continuously supported our research through her wisdom and who has helped us navigate
our way through this long ride.
Dr. Elvira C. Viray, Principal IV of Pangasinan National High School, for giving
her permission to administer the questionnaire.
Mr. Ildefonso Vergara Jr., Class President, who was there to answer our questions
and provided us with his unfaltering support and service throughout this journey.
The Grade 10 Learners (Section 1-5), who served as the respondents of our study,
for dedicating their time and effort to answering our questionnaire with pure intentions and
sincerity.
To their Families, classmates, and trusted friends, who have always been there
in all times of circumstances, who stuck up to their vents and questions, and who reminded
them that they are capable.

iii
Above all, to the Heavenly Father, for reminding them of His love and His spirit
in them, washing away their anxieties and doubts. He, who showed them how far faith can
take them and their desires for a glorious purpose. Truly, all glory and honor belong to
Him.
- The Researchers
DEDICATION
The researchers would like to dedicate this piece of work to those people who extended
their helping hands and made this dream within reach:
To their group mates – who have always been there to support each other and become
victorious through this battle they were all meant to fight together. For staying up
together through countless nights and hours just to accomplish and achieve their goals.
To their dedicated teachers – who have all helped them when they sought guidance and
brought them comfort and willpower in times of difficulties, who purposely lessened their
workload for the sake of this research. It is them that believed the most about what
potential these young researchers hold.
To their friends – who have listened to all their endless rants and made them keep going
through their words of encouragement, who offered them services and support that had
only made it possible for this work to be finished.

iv
To their families – who gave them snacks when they were busy being consumed by their
monitors, and gave them pats on the back when they needed it most. Truly, they are the
best supporters one could ask for.
To the Omnipotent, Omniscient, and Omnipresent God,
whose love calms their weariness whenever they face uncertainties and whose grace
abounds when they are confronted with detours.
This was only made possible, not by their efforts, but by His Spirit that worked within
them. His agape love was boundless and eternal, which never failed to make them feel
protected and secure by His name.
All glory and honor belong to Him.
- The Researchers
v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
TITLE PAGE….…………………………………………… i
ACKNOWLEDGMENT…………..…………………….….... ii
DEDICATION……………………………………. .……….. iii-iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………..…. v
Chapter 1: THE RESEARCH PROBLEM
Rationale….………………………..….………………………… 1
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework….………………………… 6
Paradigm of the Study….………………………………. 9
Statement of the Problem….…………………………………… 11
Assumption of the Study….…………………………………….. 12
Scope and Delimitation….………………………………………. 12
Significance of the Study….……………………………………. 13
Definition of Terms….………………………………………….. 15
Chapter 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Related Literature………………………………………………. 18
Related Studies ………………………………………. 22
BIBLIOGRAPHY………………………… 27
APPENDICES
A. Letter of Permission to Conduct the Study……………. 29
B. Letter of Request to Float Questionnaire…………….. 30
vi
C. Letter of Request to the Participants of the Study…... 31

D. Survey Questionnaire…………………………………. 32
CURRICULUM VITAE………..…………………. 35
1
Chapter 1
THE RESEARCH PROBLEM
Rationale
Article 1 of the Family Code of the Philippines defined marriage as a particular
contract of permanent union between a man and a woman entered into by law for the
establishment of conjugal and family life. Filipinos are known to be religious, being one
of the two predominantly Roman Catholic countries in Asia, the other being East Timor.
Same-sex marriage occurs when two individuals of the same gender form a union
of a lifetime caused by romantic feelings of the same sex, which is deemed heavily heretical
and is not an acknowledged act in the Philippines. Filipinos, the majority being Roman
Catholics, believe in the traditional and cultural way of marriage as the only nature of
reality. Churches declare marriage as a union between a man and a woman
Furthermore, the idea of same-sex parents adopting a child has not been favored as
an ideal practice. It is believed that a parental figure of either sex holds great significance
when raising a child. Studies suggest that a girl's relationship with a mother strongly
influences her sense of self-value and self-image, the nature and quality of her future
relationship skills, as well as her mental health. A mother's love is also influential in a boy's
identity. It can influence his mental health, his school performance, his tendency to engage
in risky behaviors, and eventually, his ability to achieve success in life both in personal
2
relationships and in his chosen career (Fernandez, 2018). Meanwhile, studies suggest that
the absence of a father figure often leads to behavioral problems, diminished self-concept,
and compromised physical and emotional security. Fatherless children have more
difficulties in social adjustment (Erickson, 2019)
Same-sex couples being given the legal right to adopt children remains unfavored
by many. Not only it is believed that either parental figure holds great significance on the
child’s development and the absence of either one would result in conflicted well-being,
but also the environment of children surrounded by people constantly telling them off for
not living in a supposedly normal household heavily affects their mental state. The
homophobia they are sucked into solely for having same-sex parents would negatively
affect them, considering how many countries remain unfavored of it and refuse to legalize
such, especially in the Philippines.
Under the article, Where Same-Sex Marriage Has Been Legalized Around the
World (2021):
“As of December 2021, 31 countries across the globe have legalized same-sex marriages
nationally or regionally through legislation or court decisions. Despite continued
prohibition in South and Central Asia as well as many African nations, there’s hope that
the tides will turn in countries such as the Philippines where candidates supporting same-
sex marriages and civil unions are increasingly present in elections.”
The legalization of same-sex marriage started with the Netherlands in December
2000, Belgium in January 2003, Canada and Spain in 2005, South Africa in 2006, Norway,
Mexico, and Sweden in 2009, Iceland, Portugal, and Argentina in 2010, Denmark in 2012,
3
Uruguay, New Zealand, France, Brazil, and England and Wales in 2013, Scotland in 2014,
Luxembourg, Finland, Ireland, United States, and Greenland in 2015, Colombia in 2016,
Germany, Australia, and Malta in 2017, Austria, Ecuador, and Taiwan in 2019, Costa Rica
in 2020, and the newest, Switzerland and Chile in 2021. (Where Same-Sex Marriage Has
Been Legalized Around the World, 2021)
Legislation in 22 nations has made same-sex marriage lawful on a national scale.
Australia, Ireland, and Switzerland, among others, approved same-sex marriage through
legislation only following national referendums. Austria, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica,
Ecuador, Mexico, Slovenia (followed by national law), South Africa, Taiwan, and the
United States of America are the ten countries that have allowed same-sex marriage on a
national level by court decisions. Following court orders, two countries, South Africa and
Taiwan approved legislation legalizing same-sex marriage. (Marriage Equality Around the
World, n.d.)
In the Philippines, the legalization of same-sex marriage remains at the moment of
being disagreed upon by many Filipinos, even if the Philippines is labeled as LGBT
friendly country. In the survey made by The Philippine Government Is Conducting an
Online Poll on Same-Sex Unions (n.d.), towards the legalization of same-sex marriage as
of publication time, there are 843 undecided votes, 73,737 votes in favor of the proposal,
and 77,307 votes against it. Before Philippine social media received wind of the poll, 78%
of the votes were against same-sex unions. This concludes that even if the Philippines is
labeled as one of the LGBT-friendly countries, we should not disregard the fact that the
Philippines is also a religion-centered country towards Catholicism.

4
In the research studied by Ochoa, Sio, Quiñones, & Manalastas (2018), titled A
Bond Between Man and Woman: Religiosity, Moral Foundations, and Same-Sex Marriage
Attitudes in the Philippines they found the following:
“The significant role of Purity/sanctity confirms previous research (Koleva, et. al., 2012),
and comes as no surprise, as this foundation tends to play heavily in issues related to
sexuality (Graham, et. al., 2012). However, other moral foundations do not seem to play
much of a role, contrary to the aforementioned study. Despite the emphasis of advocates
on messages of equality and love in pushing for same-sex marriage, the moral foundations
of Fairness/reciprocity and Harm/ care do not seem to be related to attitudes towards the
issue among our Filipino respondents. The concept of marriage and sexuality in the
Philippines may be seen more as a church-related rather than a secular issue, and the
messaging of church leaders about the sanctity of marriage tends to have a greater impact
on attitudes. Aside from identifying relevant moral foundations concerning the issue,
consideration of morality also allows for a more nuanced understanding of gender
differences. Although previous research has consistently shown that women tend to have
more positive attitudes toward same-sex marriage (Duncan & Kemmelmeier, 2012; Herek,
2011; Koleva, Graham, Iyer, Ditto, & Haidt, 2012), the results of this study suggest further
unpacking gender with moral foundations to better understand the source of these gender
differences. As expected, religious influence is evident in the role of religious 167
behaviors in predicting same-sex marriage attitudes. It is notable that although religious
attendance predicted attitudes in the initial model, this effect became non-significant when
other religious behaviors were considered, and instead was better captured by the behavior
5
of reading the main sacred text of one’s religion. Given the nature of the student sample
whose church attendance may be required by their parents, as well as the integration of
religious rituals in Filipino society, it is possible that attendance in religious services does
not necessarily signify greater religiosity. Thus, the findings of the study highlight the need
for finer distinctions in measures of religiosity, especially in contexts where religion is
heavily integrated into the cultural norms and family life.”
The article created by Cornelio (2019), describes how religious freedom has been
used against supporters of same-sex marriage and gender equality in the Philippines. While
the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community and allies have
invoked religious freedom to seek equal legal rights, conservative Christian entities have
retaliated by doing the same. They have stolen religious freedom, which has always been
interpreted in favor of individual liberty by the courts, to protect majoritarian principles
surrounding sexuality. This is referred to in the article as the weaponization of religious
freedom in defense of the dominant faith and a supposed majority of Filipinos whose moral
sensibilities are allegedly under threat. The article concludes by relating this weaponization
to the Catholic Church's experience in the current public arena and the combative nature
of Christianity, which continues to see the Philippines as a Christian nation.
This research aims to gather ideas and arguments from both sides and conduct
surveys and studies while hoping to further broaden our understanding and knowledge of
the effects of same-sex marriage and child adoption on learners in the Philippines.
6
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
The theoretical underpinning of this study is to discuss the concepts of normative,
stable, and constant gender and/or sexual identities, homosexual parenthood, and same-sex
couple adoptions.
Additional Conceptions of Parenting Psychoanalytic and Social Learning Theories
of Psychological Development stress the importance of the social and personal
development of having heterosexual male and female parents during childhood,
emphasizing the "distinctive contributions each makes to the social developmental process
in children'' (Patterson, 1992).
Gender identity, assumed to be the mark of a person’s natural being, is produced
by the "stabilizing concepts of sex, gender, and sexuality" (Butler, 1999). The concepts of
sex, gender, and sexuality are themselves considered stable; they have been naturalized,
normalized, and standardized. When "gendered beings" fail to conform to the gendered
norms of cultural intelligence by which persons are defined, the very legitimacy of their
personhood is called into question. Gender is produced through performative acts to appear
"real" and "natural." That reality of gender signifies the demarcation of existence, i.e., to
have a gender and an identity as that gender is to be a person. If gender identity is
destabilized, the binary is subverted. and coherency and continuity are lost, then the subject
is somehow stripped of that rank of "person." to become a specter who only exists in
another binary form—that of the Other to the Person, as some are outside of a particular
society’s continuum of personhood, which is constructed through the causal relationship
described.
7
Further, these theories predict negative outcomes for children whose parents do not
fit this model. As a result, there exists a pervasive belief that homosexuality is incompatible
with procreation and parenting. In reaction to the 2002 American Academy of Pediatrics
statement of support for co-Pediatricians (one avenue by which gay and lesbian couples
adopt) (Field, 2002), the editor of Pediatrics wrote, "The term "parent" has been stretched
to new limits." Lesbians are presumed to be less maternal, and lesbian motherhood is
considered an "inherent contradiction" (DiLapi, 1989; Falk, 1989). Zicklin (1995) used
the idea of hierarchy in his discussion of homosexual parenting, stating that "married
heterosexual reproducing couples represent the pinnacle of hierarchically arranged,
morally approved family relationships." Gay fatherhood has faced a similar stigma
because, like lesbian motherhood, it is viewed as a contradiction. Stereotypes regarding the
lifestyles of gay men have contributed to this idea as has the belief that "the man who is
both gay and a father is a victim of divided personal identity" (Bigner & Jacobsen, 1989).
The gay father is seen as having to mediate two cultures: one that defines his life as a gay
man, and the other (heterosexual) that defines his life as a father. According to Mallon
(2000), gay men who have parents “will be confronted with multiple questions about their
ability to parent based solely on their gender role orientation and society's expectations that
men are not typically caregivers of young children." (Brown,1998), "Much of the hostility
toward lesbians and gay men is fostered, and adoption has been backed by common-sense
attitudes about children being unable to develop "typically" in lesbian and gay households".
Another objection to gay and lesbian adoptive parents is that "it would not be fair to place
8
vulnerable children with stigmatized adults" (Brown, 1998; Ricketts and Achtenberg,
1990).
Child welfare agencies may have formal or informal policies prohibiting same-sex
couples from being approved for adoption. Adoption workers' belief systems and biases
may prevent them from recommending placement with gay or lesbian couples. Regarding
"homophobia/non-placement," Ryan's sample of social workers had borderline favorable
attitudes toward gay men and lesbians as adoptive parents (2000). These theories
concentrate on the history of gay and lesbian involvement in adoption and fostering, as
well as the legislation, or lack thereof, surrounding such adoptions and homosexual couples
as adoptive parents.
9
EFFECTS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND CHILD ADOPTION ON
LEARNERS IN THE PHILIPPINES
TO LEARNERS S.Y. 2022-2023
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
A survey
distributed to gather
I. Profile of the insights regarding
respondents the parent-child An Awareness
relationship of Video on the
Age
students. Effects of
Sex
Religious Evaluation of same-
Same-Sex
Affiliation sex marriage and Marriage and
Parent-Child child adoption in the Child Adoption
Relationship Philippines through:
II. Insights about
Thematic
Adoption of Same-Sex
analysis of
Marriage
the survey
data
gathered.
Figure 1. Paradigm of the Study

10
Figure 1. The Paradigm of the Study shows the use of the Input-Process-Output
(IPO) model. The first frame presents the input of the study that includes the profile of
respondents such as age, sex, religious affiliation, nature of work, and parent-child
relationship, and the insights about the adoption of same-sex marriage.
The second frame presents the study's process, which includes the distribution of a
survey to gather insights about students' parent-child relationships and the evaluation of
same-sex marriage and child adoption in the Philippines, as well as data gathering through
a thematic analysis of the survey data.
The third frame presents the output of the study, which includes raising awareness
about the effects of same-sex marriage and child adoption in the Philippines through an
awareness video presentation.
The arrows from the input to the process and the output show the connection and
transformation of the profile and aspects with the actions taken into results that are
considered as output.
The arrow from input to output represents feedback which reflects the continuity of
the flow and interconnectedness of the elements.

11
Statement of the Problem

The study aimed to determine the Effects of Same-Sex Marriage and Child Adoption
on Learners in the Philippines.
Specifically, this seeks answers to the following questions:
Q1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of the following:
A. Age
B. Sex
C. Religious Affiliation
D. Parent-Child Relationship
Q2. What are the factors affecting the sexual preference and gender identity of the
respondents?
Q3. What are the advantages of same-sex couples adopting a child? Disadvantages?
Q4. What are the possible difficulties that may arise in adopting children by same-sex
couples?
12
Assumption of the Study
The researchers believed that Same-Sex Marriage and Child Adoption affect the
development of children adopted by same-sex couples.
Scope and Delimitation
The scope of this study will be the impact of same-sex marriage and child adoption
on the child’s well-being and development in the Philippines.
During the course of the study, the researcher determined the profile of the respondents
which comprises the age, sex, and parent-child relationship.
Regarding the child's well-being, respondents believed that growing up in a same-sex
family would have an impact on the child's development, this would have a positive overall
impact. An estimated 3% of respondents thought the influence would be harmful due to
potential social integration issues. This corresponds to the majority of respondents'
perceptions that the child may be teased by classmates or have difficulty making friends,
considering how the Philippines, as mentioned, is a Christian country. As a result, rather
than being created by parents or caregivers, these issues would be created by peers and,
more broadly, society. Children raised in gay and lesbian families may face more
difficulties in childhood simply because their family deviates from what society considers
"normal," rather than because of the sexual orientation of their fathers or mothers.
The researcher gathered information about the potential impact of this study through
a thematic analysis of the survey data conducted.

13
Significance of the Study
The research was anticipated to contribute additional information that has
properly undergone intensive study. The findings of this research can be a great aid to the
following:
Same-sex partners. Same-sex marriage was the hallmark of true equality by
some. Same-sex couples/partners can turn to adoption in order to gain the rights of legal
parents. In marriage, both will have the same rights and responsibilities that greatly
affect the rights regarding children. Both partners can seek custody just like any married
couple. Pro-Life UK and AIA Philippines can now designate same-sex partners as life
insurance beneficiaries. Extension of healthcare, life insurance benefits, and even
inheritance rights will be improved.
LGBTQIA+ Community. Same-sex marriage is not an acknowledged act in the
Philippines, even if our country is labeled as LGBT-friendly. From a human rights
perspective, broadening civil marriage to couples of the same sex demonstrates
fundamental rights of equality and non-discrimination. Filipino minorities and students
may be motivated to support same-sex marriage because of their relationships. Thus, future
work on same-sex marriage may also investigate the impact of these relationships on
attitudes.
Adoption Agencies. In some states, same-sex adoption wasn’t allowed. Hence,
resulted in same-sex couples being unable to parent or being deprived of their rights at
critical moments.
14
Society. This study will be a big help since same-sex marriage is believed to have
a positive effect since it won’t harm the institution of marriage, should it uphold the
constitution, and will inevitably happen either way. In the Netherlands, 20,000 same-sex
couples have been married. Moreover, it did not have any negative cultural impact. The
concept of marriage and sexuality is seen more as church-related rather than a secular issue.
As expected, religious influence is evident in behaviors of predicting same-sex marriage.
Politics. The Supreme Court's decision triggered a wave of political activism in
support of same-sex marriage across the country, and several states began to legalize it.
Allowing same-sex marriage strengthens society by supporting and nurturing family
values. It can also help to reduce discrimination and bigotry against these groups by
encouraging our society to be more open and accepting of people from different
backgrounds. These are just a few of the ways that marriage equality can benefit society as
a whole. Legalizing same-sex marriage benefits the state's economy as well.
Family Instability. This study shows that living in unstable families can harm
children's well-being regardless of whether they live only with their married biological
parents, in stepfamilies, or with single parents. Critics argued that the negative outcomes
of children with a parent who had a same-sex sexual relationship were much more likely
related to a history of instability than to the parents' sexual or familial orientation or gender
composition. That is why same-sex couples should be legally allowed to marry in order to
normalize same-sex marriage and prevent people from criticizing those who marry off the
same sex.
15
Children and Your Rights. Your parental rights are hugely affected by your
status. In a marriage, both partners have the same rights and responsibilities. In a divorce,
both partners, like any married couple, have the right to seek custody and visitation. When
a parent dies, the surviving parent takes over as the primary legal parent. Adoption can be
used by same-sex couples to gain legal parental rights. No state may deny the couple
adoption as long as they are married.
Definition of Terms
To develop a wider knowledge and better comprehension of the topic, the
researcher has included the conceptual and operational definitions of terms and concepts
used in this study.
Adoption. A process whereby a person assumes the parenting of another, usually
a child, from that person's biological or legal parent or parents. Legal adoptions
permanently transfer all rights and responsibilities, along with filiation, from the biological
parents to the adoptive parents.
Age. This refers to any people who are still in the process of developing their self-
identity and values.
Awareness Video. A video output that aims to raise awareness regarding the
Effects of Same-Sex Marriage and Child Adoption on Learners in the Philippines. The
content of the video may vary depending on the results of our thematic analysis of the
distributed survey questionnaire that explores our said topic.

16
Child Welfare. Continuum of services designed to ensure that children are safe
and that families have the necessary support to care for their children successfully.
Children. Refers to children that are from an orphanage or adoption center with no
legal parents or guardians and are still generally underdeveloped.
Family Code. Collection of written laws gathered together covering all matters
regarding family and marriage enacted by former President Corazon C. Aquino on July 6,
1987, in Executive No. 209.
Gender. The range of characteristics pertaining to femininity and masculinity and
differentiating between them. Depending on the context, this may include sex-based social
structures and gender identity. The personal sense of a person’s identity. The term can also
refer to socially constructed categories that relate to what it means to be a man or a woman.
Heterosexuality. Romantic attraction, sexual attraction, or sexual behavior
between people of the opposite sex or gender.
Homosexuality. Associated with a person who considers themselves as “gay” or
“lesbian”, in which they are presuming a different gender from the actual gender they
obtained from birth.
Legalization. The action of making something that was previously illegal
permissible by law.
LGBTQIA+. Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Asexual and more
refer to a distinct group within society who are commonly distinguished by the way they
17
dress, through speaking, and their actions. LGBT has traditionally been used to represent
a diverse group of people who are attracted to people of the same gender or are in a
relationship with someone of the same gender.
Pansexuality. Romantic attraction and sexual attraction to anyone regardless of
their gender identity and sex. They are also referred to as “gender-blind” individuals who
believe sex and/or gender is not a determining factor when it comes to attraction.
Parents. Two individuals who are responsible to raise their legal child, may it be a
biological or an adoptive one, and have respective roles to fulfill when nurturing a child.
Religious Affiliation. The self-identified association of a person with a religion,
denomination, or sub-denominational religious group, such as the church an individual
belongs to.
Same-Sex Marriage. The marriage of two people of the same sex or gender.
Sex. This pertains to the state of being, structural, functional, and behavioral
characteristics of the respondents/learners that are distinguished respectively as male or
female. Refers to biological and physiological characteristics. Your genitals, hormones,
and chromosomes all relate to your sex.

18
Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter constitutes a summary of related literature and selected related studies which
significantly provide a background for the discussion and analysis of findings in this
recent study.
Related Literature
This section indicates concepts and discussions of literary works relating to Same-
Sex Marriage and Child Adoption in the Philippines and its related factors.
Many years have passed yet same-sex marriage remains a relevant issue in this
modern world— questioning its ethics because of not following the status quo. The union
of a man and a woman has been a sacred tradition passed on by generations of generations
all over the world. With same-sex marriage reigning over the modern standards of dating
and affairs, the topic has been a widely spread debate in both academic and non-academic
spectrums. However, what this research wishes to fulfill is whether the sexuality of same-
sex parents is a benefactor, whether negatively or not, to the development of their adopted
children. This review aims to analyze literary works that showcase different angles of
arguments regarding same-sex marriage and child adoption, whether it’s believed to have
a negative or indifferent impact on children.
Although some individuals and formed communities support same-sex marriage
and child adoption, an inevitable part of people opposes the idea of it continuing to question
whether it is morally right and truly harmless to children. Specifically, they argue that
19
children raised by same-sex parents may experience several disadvantages in child
development, believing that this will affect their psychological well-being— their
academic performance, emotional development, and cognitive behavior. While, of course,
this is uncommon and a fairly well-thought assumption, a handful of researchers have gone
head-to-head with these claims finally breaking superstitions and revealing the truth,
suggesting that same-sex marriage might just have a positive and non-threatening impact
on children or whatsoever.
To further deep dive into this analysis, we have gathered works we thought might
be relevant to the given issue and present different angles in the conversation of same-sex
marriage and child adoption. Supporters of same-sex marriage argue that it is only right for
an individual to choose who he/she marries and otherwise would be an act of
discrimination. After all, LGBT rights are human rights just as well, in other words, they
deserve the same treatment as others allowed to be able to choose whom they choose to
commit with. Furthermore, legalizing the marriage of same-sex partners might actually just
promote gender equality further and social acceptance for said community, while also
offering them the same privilege and legal protection as any relatively ‘normal’ husbands
and wives. (Gates, 2015). Not only that, the illogical fallacy on the argument of same-sex
parents as an aspect to consider in a child’s well-being has been pointed out by another
author who stated that we should pay more attention to the safety and welfare of the
children rather than the sexual orientation the adoptive parents as the deciding factor of
their adoption. This means the environment of the said adopted children and whether it is
truly dangerous and harmful rather than just a matter of sexual orientation. Most
20
importantly, orphans would actually benefit from the legalization of same-sex marriage
child adoption because not only would they finally experience a loving and stable family,
but it would also reduce children in foster care and are given them the opportunity to step
into the outside world. (Badgett et al., 2018)
Now, while everything mentioned has been arguments presented by patrons of
same-sex marriage and child adoption, we have looked into the disagreeing party on said
topic and why they have opposing ideals in the first place. To start things off, their main
reason was generally simple— values and traditions. Marriage is defined as a sacred union
between a man and a woman and this has been a long-line distributor in culture and
tradition, as it is a universal knowledge and a social construct. They argue that actually
legalizing the novel act of same-sex marriage and child adoption would defeat the whole
purpose of the traditional family structure. Deprived of the status quo— normal and
traditional family structure would apparently lead to psychological, behavioral, and
emotional problems. However, going back to their general argument, they strongly think
that the legalization of same-sex marriage and child adoption breaks havoc on the
traditional values and morals ingrained in people for decades already and such approval
would only pave the way to brand new non-traditional relationship structures. (Anderson,
2015). Similarly, another work has pointed out, besides the breakdown of our long-
practiced traditional values, the possible negative outcomes from this newly formed
structure of same-sex parents and their children. This is where the significance of a mother
figure and a father figure comes in. They believe that a child needs both genders as parental
figures to develop as a well-adjusted individual— which cannot be possibly done by having

21
parents from either gender. An absolute equilibrium is needed from both guardians or
otherwise a child would feel conflicted and might possibly just suffer from confusion
regarding his/her gender identity and sexual orientation. (Barrett, 2018). This argument is
further pushed by believing that same-sex parents are incapable of providing the same
emotional and psychological support that heterosexual couples can provide (Regnerus,
2012).
With all that in mind, there were generally two elements that have been used as an
argument against same-sex marriage and child adoption: The traditional family structure
and the dire need for both parental figures in raising a child. Although both reasoning
sounds logical and a well-thought theory, research has proven otherwise of such claims.
After intensive research on related literature works, we have found numerous studies
investigating the variables that affect same-sex marriage and child welfare. An example of
this is a meta-analysis of 33 studies conducted by Gartrell and Bos (2010) who found that
the sexual orientation of the adoptive parents would affect the well-being of their children
is, indeed, a false assumption. In fact, they have seen firsthand that children raised by same-
sex parents have been doing just as well as other kids raised by heterosexual parents—
academic excellence, social life, and emotional management. Now, further strengthening
this research, another study by Crowl et al. (2008) found out that children that have lesbian
mothers have higher self-esteem and fewer problems in their cognitive behavior than
opposite-sex parents. Research also suggests that rather than solely focusing on the sexual
orientation of the adoptive parents, the true significant factor to a well-adjusted kid is
his\her relationship with his\her parents and what sort of environment he/she grew up in.
22
In other terms, a supportive and loving family environment plays a much bigger role in
child development, regardless of both parents’ sexual identity/orientation (Goldberg and
Allen, 2013). Lastly, a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that children
raised by same-sex couples have the same welfare and emotional well-being as children
raised by heterosexual couples (Farr et al., 2018). Meaning that the sexual orientation of
their parents had not a significant effect or impact on the children’s cognitive development
at all. All things considered, it seems that the argument of same-sex parents being incapable
of raising a child has been proven otherwise and that they could raise a kid into a well-
adjusted and emotionally mature individual— suggesting that parenting has never been a
matter of sexuality but your capability to produce a loving and healthy environment for
your kids. After all, it does not take one’s gender but one’s soul to love someone and raise
them as your own kid— never a matter of gender but compassion.
Related Studies
The Church’s concern over the welfare of adopted children is reflected in the Code
of Canon Law and some magisterial documents, in her longtime collaboration with the
United Nations, and in her deference to civil laws which respect the best interests of the
child as the paramount consideration in matters of adoption. Complications arose in recent
decades when some nations began to legalize “same-sex marriage” and consequently, the
adoption of children by same-sex couples which are both contrary to Church tradition.
(Faustino, A., 2020). Marriage appears to be more strongly related to such benefits than
civil partnerships (Le Blanc et al. 2018).

23
Sexual minorities have reported that unequal institutional recognition is a source of
stress (Frost et al. 2017: Thomeer et al. 2018) and less recognition of their relationships
(Frost et al. 2017) Moreover, much multidimensional research work is still needed for
better understanding of the link between heterosexual parenting and gender development.
(Faustino, A., 2020) However, while public opinion on homosexuality has become
increasingly liberal in recent times, such as same-sex marriages and same-sex adoptions
remain highly polarizing political topics (Daniels, 2019; Sherkat, Powell-Williams,
Madox, & De Vries, 2011) clearly, politicians often attempt to influence macroeconomic
outcomes by, for example, implementing partisan fiscal policies that gratify the needs of
their constituencies (e.g., Schmidt 1996; Potrafke 2017, 2018). Politicians have collective
views on such issues and possibly could get wiry on controversial issues. Conservative
parties, for example, are less likely to advocate the presence of same-sex marriage and
same-sex adoptions than liberal parties. After decades of progressive changes in the realm
and recognition and inclusion of people with diverse sexual orientations, the said past
decade had seen notable backslashes. From the temporary reversal of provisions preventing
the discrimination of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer minorities— to at least 50
transgender or gender non-binary individuals have been murdered across the archipelago
since 2010, and Quiban who has been campaigning tirelessly for transgender rights since
2012 in the Philippines, most recently as policy and campaign director for PANTAY
PILIPINAS. As evident from these examples, these recent backlashes are not necessarily
focused only on sexual minorities but often go hand in hand with the proliferation of
‘gender critical’ discourses and attacks on ‘gender ideology’, directed specifically at trans
24
and non-binary communities (e.g. Borba, 2022). Yet, as Ayoub (2016: 45-46) reminds us
that we should be wary of greater visibility inevitably translates into greater acceptance
(same-sex marriage). Existing research is influenced by an optimistic narrative that
emphasizes public presence as a critical prerequisite for equality growth. The media is
portrayed as a key tool for increasing public acceptance of sexual minority rights in this
storyline (e.g. Ayoub and Garretson 2017; Jacobs and Meeusen, 2021).
Media and same-sex relationships have been conducted extensively, with a wealth
of studies exploring media representations and visibility of homosexuality across various
genres and types of media. Some notable works in this field include Gross (2002) and
Jacobs and Meeusen (2021). In particular, cinema has played a significant role in the
history of gay and lesbian rights activism, in part due to its separation from the home
environment and relative lack of regulation compared to television during that time (Dyer,
2017). Recent years have seen a surge in the acceptance of same-sex relationships, and this
trend has not gone unnoticed by the media. As a result, there has been an increasing focus
on same-sex adaptation studies, examining how the media has portrayed and adapted to
changing attitudes towards homosexuality. Despite the progress that has been made,
however, there is still much work to be done to ensure full representation and equality in
the media for LGBTQ+ individuals.
It was clear from the aforementioned related literature and studies that same-sex
marriage and child adaption have been gradually evolving. As part of structural changes in
partnership formations and family institutions— some countries around the world have
25
started to accept and formalize same-sex relationships to the extent of legalizing same-sex
marriage. Same-sex marriage legalization is a typical anti-discrimination policy to remove
institutional discrimination against sexual minorities by providing them with marriage
equality.
Understanding same-sex couples’ reasons for and experiences with parenthood is
situated within the context of sociological themes such as the conceptualization of “family
themes” and parenthood negotiation in a heteronormative culture.
Starting a family is, of course, considered an adult life course. The motivation and
pursuit of parenthood have been considered numerous in different studies (Baldwin et al.,
2019; Mynarska and Rytel, 2020; Pralat, 2020). stressing a variety of motivating elements,
such as the perceived emotional benefits of the parent-child link, role-related rewards (the
family line will continue), a sense of contentment in the presence of the children, and a
notion that children complete “a marriage.” In Parker and Alexander’s (2004) study, which
aimed to explore the importance and influence of timing when starting a family— two
dominant factors emerged for both males’ and females’ decision-making process: if they
could afford a child and if their partner would be a suitable parent. Other important criteria
included having someone to love, having both parties with a secure career, and adding
meaning and purpose to one’s life. Lesbian and gay parenting research focuses on the
children’s experiences, including the peers’ reactions, perspective on homosexuality, and
how children of same-sex marriages define family. Increased interest in examining sexual
and gender minority families, with a particular focus on the child’s outcomes, is not
surprising given the ongoing discussions about same-sex marriage. While much of the
26
existing empirical research on same-sex couples’ relationships and experiences of
parenthood focuses on the health and development of the children raised by same-sex
couples, there is a more limited but growing research focus on the fertility intentions of
sexual and gender minority families.
For instance, collecting campaign advertisements from 1997 to 2013, Stone (2019)
found that children do have consequences of marriage equality for children raised by same-
sex parents. In a 2019 poll in the United States, 31 percent of the adult population opposed
same-sex marriage (Pew Research Center, 2019). by leveraging unique administrative
longitudinal data from the Netherlands, the first country to legalize same-sex marriage. The
Netherlands is particularly empirical assess outcomes of children coming from same-sex
parents, as we can examine how things have played out in the nation where same-sex
marriage has been in place for nearly two decades. While the lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community and allies in the Philippines have appealed
to religious freedom to gain equal rights under the law, conservative Christians have fought
back by invoking the same notion.

27
BIBLIOGRAPHY
A. BOOKS
● Crowl, A., Ahn, S., & Baker, J. (2008). A meta-analysis of developmental
outcomes for children of same-sex and heterosexual parents. Journal of LGBT
Family Studies, 4(3), 385-407.
● Gartrell, N. K., & Bos, H. M. (2010). US national longitudinal lesbian family
study: Psychological Adjustment of 17-year-old adolescents. Pediatrics, 126(1),
28-36.
● Goldberg, A. E., & Allen, K. R. (2013). LGBT-parent families: Innovations in
research and implications for practice. Journal of Family Theory & Review, 5(3),
131-148.
B. UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS
C. JOURNALS AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS
● (Baldwin et al., 2019; Mynarska and Rytel, 2020; Pralat, 2020) The Motivations
and Experiences of Couples who are Pursuing Parenthood Parker, Alexander’s
(2004) The Significance and Impact of Timing when Starting a Family.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/13634607221091485
● Frost et al. (2017) Same-Sex Couples' Mental Health, Legal Marriage, and
Unequal Recognition
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jomf.12460
D. OTHERS
28
● Celera, Lex. The Philippine Government is Conducting an Online Poll on Same-
Sex Unions. (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2022, from
https://www.vice.com/en/article/wjvg3z/philippine-governmentonline-poll-same-
sex-unions
● Cornelio, J. (2019, August 13). Weaponizing Religious Freedom: Same-Sex
Marriage and Gender Equality in the Philippines. Retrieved December 19, 2022,
from https://brill.com/view/journals/rhrs/14/2/article-p65_1.xml
● Fernandez, Elayna. A Strong Mother Figure's Positive Impact. (2018). Retrieved
December 21, 2022, from https://www.thepositivemom.com/strong-mother-figure
● HRC Foundation. Marriage Equality Around the World. (n.d.). Human Rights
Campaign. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from
https://www.hrc.org/resources/marriage-equality-around-the-world
● Kruk, Edward. Father Absence, Father Deficit, Father Hunger | Psychology
Today. (2012). Retrieved December 21, 2022, from
https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/co-parenting-after-
divorce/201205/father-absence-father-deficit-father-hunger
● Navarre, Brianna & Trimble, Megan. Where Same-Sex Marriage Has Been
Legalized Around the World. (2021, December 16). US News & World Report.
Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://www.usnews.com/news/best-
countries/articles/countries-where-same-sex-marriage-is-legal
29
Appendix A
LETTER OF PERMISSION TO CONDUCT THE STUDY

January 13, 2023
JOCEL A. TAMONDONG, MAEd

Teacher III
Warm Greetings!
In partial fulfillment of our requirements for our subject English 10, we, Grade 10
Students of 10-Matapat, namely: Bernabe John V. Quimson, Raven Rey S. Geminiano, Keisha
Mae T. Fabricante, Neil Tyrone T. Guarin, Shema Yvanna F. Calimlim, Johnmark B. Ocreto,
Camela C. Aquino, and Geraldine M. Jose would like to ask for your permission to conduct a
research study entitled EFFECTS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND CHILD ADOPTION ON
LEARNERS IN THE PHILIPPINES. Rest assured that the data we will gather will remain
absolutely confidential and to be used for academic purposes only.
We believe that you are with us in our enthusiasm to finish the requirement as
compliance for our subject. We hope for your positive response on this humble matter. Your
approval to conduct this study will be greatly appreciated.
Very truly yours,
10- 5 MATAPAT STUDENTS (GROUP 3)

Researchers
Approved:

English 10 Teacher
30
Appendix B
LETTER OF REQUEST TO FLOAT QUESTIONNAIRE

January 13, 2023
Dear Sir/Ma’am,
Greetings of Peace!
We, Grade 10 Students of 10-Matapat, namely: Bernabe John V. Quimson, Raven

Rey S. Geminiano, Keisha Mae T. Fabricante, Neil Tyrone T. Guarin, Shema Yvanna F.
Calimlim, Johnmark B. Ocreto, Camela C. Aquino, and Geraldine M. Jose were conducting a
study entitled EFFECTS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND CHILD ADOPTION ON
LEARNERS IN THE PHILIPPINES as a requirement for our English Subject.
In this regard, we are seeking your approval for us to conduct our study and gather
data from our fellow Grade 10 learners as our research subjects. Rest assured that all the
information that they will provide will remain strictly confidential and will only be used for the
sole purpose of this research.
We are looking forward to your unceasing support regarding this matter. Thank you
very much and God bless you!
Very truly yours,

Researchers
Approved:

English 10 Teacher
31
Appendix C
LETTER OF REQUEST TO THE PARTICIPANTS OF THE STUDY

January 13, 2023
Dear Participants:
Greetings of Peace!
We, Grade 10 Students of 10-Matapat, namely: Bernabe John V. Quimson, Raven
Rey S. Geminiano, Keisha Mae T. Fabricante, Neil Tyrone T. Guarin, Shema Yvanna F.
Calimlim, Johnmark B. Ocreto, Camela C. Aquino, and Geraldine M. Jose were conducting a
study entitled EFFECTS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND CHILD ADOPTION ON
LEARNERS IN THE PHILIPPINES as a requirement for our English Subject.
In this regard, we are seeking your voluntary and active participation as our research
subjects/informants in order for me to attain our goal. Rest assured the information you will
give will remain strictly confidential and will only be used for the sole purpose of this research.
Kindly be aware that your individual video-recorded outputs will be uploaded only via
an online platform through a Google forms link for it to be secured.
We are looking forward to your unfaltering support through the submission of
your outputs regarding this matter. Thank you very much and God bless you seventy
and sevenfold!
Sincerely Grateful,

Researchers
Approved:

English 10 Teacher
32
Appendix D
SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE
Profile of the Grade 10 Learners
Directions: Kindly answer honestly and observe proper capitalization in filling out the necessary
information being asked for the sole purpose of profiling as a requirement for the Research entitled:
EFFECTS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND CHILD ADOPTION ON LEARNERS IN
THE PHILIPPINES.
Note: (*=required)
Complete Name: (Last Name, Given Name Middle Initial)

*(optional)
Male Female
Age: Sex:
Sexual Orientation:
Male
Female
Transgender
Others: *(optional)
Sexual Orientation:
Straight
Gay
Lesbian
Bisexual
Pansexual
33
Asexual
Others: *(optional)
Religion:
Roman Catholic
Born again, Christian
Evangelical Christian
Iglesia ni Cristo (INC)
Buddhist
Hindu
Islam
Judaism
Others:*(optional)
Parents’ Sexual Orientation:
Both Male
Both Female
Male and Female
Using the options provided, describe your relationship with your parents.
Healthy
Stable
Neutral
Unstable
Unhealthy
34
Who is your favorite parent? *(If applicable)
Mother
Father
Should same-sex couples be allowed to adopt and raise a child?
Yes, because same-sex couples are equally deserving to have their own family and
kids.
No, because it breaks the traditional family structure, and it is unethical.
Others (Please specify)
Do you think same-sex couples are just as likely as other parents to successfully raise
children?
Yes, because regardless of sex, what is important is their willingness as a parent to lovingly
nurture their child.
No, because a child needs both sexes as parental figures to grow into a well-adjusted
individual.
Others (Please specify)

35
CURRICULUM VITAE
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name : CAMELA C. AQUINO
Birthdate : April 1, 2007
Birthplace : Binmaley, Pangasinan
Address : #380 Dulag, Binmaley, Pangasinan
Civil Status : Single
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary : Dulag National High School
Binmaley, Pangasinan
2014-2019
Secondary : Pangasinan National High School
2019
36
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : SHEMA YVANNA S. CALIMLIM
Birthdate : April 27, 2007
Birthplace : San Fernando, La Union
Address : #25 Purok 3 Lucao District, Dagupan, Pangasinan
Elementary : LCC Happy Times Christian School Inc.
2014-2018
2019
37
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : ARIANNELY JANE S. DE JESUS
Birthdate : June 10, 2007
Birthplace : San Carlos, Pangasinan
Address : #132 Caloocan Sur, Binmaley, Pangasinan
Elementary : Lingayen Educational Center
2013-2015
: Caloocan Norte Elementary School
2015-2018
: Libsong East Elementary School
2018-2019
2019
38
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : KEISHA MAE T. FABRICANTE
Birthdate : January 16, 2007
Birthplace : Dagupan, Pangasinan
Address : #427 Tonton East, Lingayen, Pangasinan
Elementary : Jesus Good Shepherd Development Center
2012-2016
: JCSGO Christian Academy Inc.
Almazan St., Lingayen, Pangasinan
2016-2019
2019
39
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : RAVEN REY S. GEMINIANO
Birthdate : August 21, 2007
Birthplace : Lingayen, Pangasinan
Address : #204 Pogomboa St., Libsong West, Lingayen,
Pangasinan
Elementary : Libsong Elementary School
Libsong, Lingayen, Pangasinan
2012-2019
2019
40
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : NEIL TYRONE T. GUARIN
Birthdate : November 13, 2006
Birthplace : San Carlos, Pangasinan
Address : #164 Naguelguel, Lingayen, Pangasinan
Elementary : Lingayen I Central School
2013-2019
2019
41
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : GERALDINE M. JOSE
Birthdate : July 15, 2005
Birthplace : Bugallon, Pangasinan
Address : #66 Perfecto Abad St., Poblacion, Bugallon,
Pangasinan
Elementary : Palar Integrated School
Taguig City
2018-2019
2022
42
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : JOHNMARK B. OCRETO
Birthdate : March 24, 2007
Birthplace : San Jacinto, Pangasinan
Address : Pangapisan North, Lingayen, Pangasinan
Elementary : West Central Elementary School
2017-2018
2022
43
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : BERNABE JOHN V. QUIMSON
Birthdate : June 25, 2007
Birthplace : Labrador, Pangasinan
Address : #22 Mayor St., Maniboc, Lingayen, Pangasinan
Elementary : JCSGO Christian Academy Inc.
Almazan St., Lingayen, Pangasinan
2011-2019
2019
44
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name : JOHN STEVEN R. ZABALA
Birthdate : November 25, 2005
Birthplace : Dagupan, Pangasinan
Address : #75 Naguelguel West, Lingayen, Pangasinan
Elementary : Naguelguel Elementary School
2011-2017
2017

Edited Research Paper G3

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Edited Research Paper G3

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

i

PANGASINAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Effects of Same-Sex Marriage and Child Adoption on Learners in the

of the Requirements in Practical Research

Calimlim, Shema Yvanna F.

De Jesus, Ariannely Jane

Fabricante, Keisha Mae T.

Geminiano, Raven Rey S.

Guarin, Neil Tyrone T.

Quimson, Bernabe John V.

Zabala, John Steven R.

helped them in bringing life into this research work.

our way through this long ride.

her permission to administer the questionnaire.

them that they are capable.

their helping hands and made this dream within reach:

potential these young researchers hold.

only made it possible for this work to be finished.

best supporters one could ask for.

To the Omnipotent, Omniscient, and Omnipresent God,

abounds when they are confronted with detours.

protected and secure by His name.

All glory and honor belong to Him.

Chapter 1: THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

Chapter 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

C. Letter of Request to the Participants of the Study…... 31

THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

Article 1 of the Family Code of the Philippines defined marriage as a particular

reality. Churches declare marriage as a union between a man and a woman

difficulties in social adjustment (Erickson, 2019)

such, especially in the Philippines.

nationally or regionally through legislation or court decisions. Despite continued

sex marriages and civil unions are increasingly present in elections.”

The legalization of same-sex marriage started with the Netherlands in December

Been Legalized Around the World, 2021)

Legislation in 22 nations has made same-sex marriage lawful on a national scale.

In the Philippines, the legalization of same-sex marriage remains at the moment of

friendly country. In the survey made by The Philippine Government Is Conducting an

Philippines is also a religion-centered country towards Catholicism.

Attitudes in the Philippines they found the following:

consideration of morality also allows for a more nuanced understanding of gender

differences. As expected, religious influence is evident in the role of religious 167

behaviors in predicting same-sex marriage attitudes. It is notable that although religious

for finer distinctions in measures of religiosity, especially in contexts where religion is

heavily integrated into the cultural norms and family life.”

interpreted in favor of individual liberty by the courts, to protect majoritarian principles

surrounding sexuality. This is referred to in the article as the weaponization of religious

of Christianity, which continues to see the Philippines as a Christian nation.

The theoretical underpinning of this study is to discuss the concepts of normative,

Additional Conceptions of Parenting Psychoanalytic and Social Learning Theories

of Psychological Development stress the importance of the social and personal

development of having heterosexual male and female parents during childhood,

in children'' (Patterson, 1992).

Gender identity, assumed to be the mark of a person’s natural being, is produced

have a gender and an identity as that gender is to be a person. If gender identity is

society’s continuum of personhood, which is constructed through the causal relationship

heterosexual reproducing couples represent the pinnacle of hierarchically arranged,

because, like lesbian motherhood, it is viewed as a contradiction. Stereotypes regarding the

"homophobia/non-placement," Ryan's sample of social workers had borderline favorable

EFFECTS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND CHILD ADOPTION ON

LEARNERS IN THE PHILIPPINES

TO LEARNERS S.Y. 2022-2023

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT