Emerging issue in Society: Same Sex Marriage

I chose the legalization of same sex marriage as my emerging issue in society to blog about. I think that if same sex marriage is legalized there will be many sociological issues that we will need to navigate. While I am for same sex marriage, i chose to look into both sides of the issue in relation to sociology.

Those that are against same sex marriage may find some truth in the Functionalist Theory. The functionalist theory states that deviance from the norm is essential and creates more social cohesion with those in the "norm". If we are to let same sexes to marry it will change the societies norms of marriage. If the norms of marriage change then so will the social cohesion of the those believing that the are a part of the social norm.
Another societal issue dealing with same sex marriage would be that the gender roles that are usually in place in the traditional man/woman marriage would change. In heterosexual marriages there are usually very defined gender roles, this is not so with same sex couples. In the same sex marriages you are more likely to see a collaboration towards household duties, child rearing and more. I certainly wish this was the case in my marriage. My husband and I have for the most part have taken on traditional gender roles in our marriage. Truthfully, I am quite tired of doing the dishes, the cooking, the cleaning and most of the child rearing!
I also believe that there are benefits of same sex marriage to our society. One such benefit would be a physically and psychologically healthier society. If same sex marriages are passed many more people would be able to receive health care to stay healthy. Also, many gay and lesbians would not suffer from psychological stress and illness that they face in not being held as equal citizens.
Also, I think that it would be easier for children to be adopted by same sex married couples. With that being said there are still so many hoops for same sex couples to jump through to be able to both become actual parents of the child. To have less orphaned/fostered children would definitely be a benefit that society could use whether financially or emotionally.
I recently found this article, The Real Impact of Gay Marriage On Society on the FoxNews website. It points out issues on both sides of the same sex marriage debate. I think that this is a good article to read, because I believe that you have to me knowledgeable on both sides of the issue to really start to understand what you believe to be right.
I definitely believe that society would change if same sex marriage was legalized!