Teoría feminista, madres lesbianas y trabajo social

Abstract

This article examines feminist theory as a paradigm for social work practice with lesbian-headed families. Drawing on the foundational values of social work—equality, social justice, empowerment, and respect for diversity—the author highlights the close philosophical relationship between feminist thought and social work. The study challenges traditional assumptions that regard the heterosexual family as the only valid model for child development and reviews empirical research demonstrating that children raised by lesbian mothers develop normally without psychological or social harm. Within this framework, the article explores the theoretical and practical implications of the so-called “lesbian baby boom” and the challenges lesbian mothers face in legal, social, and cultural contexts characterized by discrimination. Feminist theory is critically evaluated through Frederic Reamer’s philosophical foundations of social work—political philosophy, moral philosophy, logic, epistemology, and aesthetics—identifying its strengths, limitations, and gaps, particularly in epistemology. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of feminist social work practice that connects the personal and the political, fosters social activism, and contributes to transforming patriarchal structures that marginalize lesbian families.