Same-Sex Couples in Italy: Social, Legal and Economic Determinants to Parenthood

The paper aims to investigate perceptions about challenges and opportunities of individuals in same-sex couples related to parenting in contemporary Italy. The country is a particularly relevant study context, as it is among the few states in Europe not to recognize same-sex marriage and adoption, it has a lengthy and complex route to legal recognition for the non-biological parent of children in same-sex couples and surrogacy is, as of 2025, a universal offence. In order to address the research objectives, primary data have been collected via 3 online focus groups, involving 15 childless men and women who, at the time of the focus groups, were in a co-residing relationship with a same-sex partner and were considering the possibility of having a child. The thematic analysis revealed that the path to parenthood for same-sex couples is hindered by legal and economic barriers. The belief that society is more open and progressive than institutions does not fully dispel the concern that stereotypes and biases related to same-sex parenting persist at the social level. The most resilient individuals continue to find ways to pursue their parenting goals, particularly those whose personal determination aligns with social support and financial resources. Parenting intentions are influenced not only by personal evaluations but also by the broader social and cultural context a person is embedded in, and the network of relationships they have. While prospective fathers and mothers share many of the same challenges, the analysis also highlighted some gender-based differences, revealing a complex and multifaceted reality.