Same-sex marriages, also called gay marriages, are legal unions between people who have the same gender identity or biological sex (Lahey & Alderson, 2010) . American society is divided regarding its opinion on same-sex marriage. A case in point is the different reactions during the last presidential campaign, when the president revealed that he supported gay marriage. Same-sex marriages are more widely accepted today than they were several years ago. In some states it has even been legalized. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay However, as much as people have become more tolerant of same-sex marriage, not everyone treats same-sex marriage as normal. Everyone has their own beliefs and opinions regarding same-sex marriage. Same-sex marriages wishing to raise children can only adopt. This is because it is biologically impossible for same-sex couples to conceive. With the exception of Portugal, all other countries and states that allow same-sex marriages also allow same-sex couples to adopt children jointly. In some cases, same-sex couples can choose artificial insemination or artificial insemination. However, this option is only viable for lesbian couples due to biological limitations. Male same-sex couples may choose to use surrogate mothers. In contrast, most heterosexual marriages prefer raising children rather than procreating. Although in some situations heterosexual couples are forced to adopt children if they cannot procreate for medical reasons. Artificial insemination and surrogacy are also options for heterosexual parents who cannot procreate for medical reasons depending on the nature of the medical problem. Furthermore, it is not uncommon to find heterosexual marriages with both biological and adopted children. There are differences when it comes to parenting. While in heterosexual marriages children are raised with different-sex parents, in homosexual marriages children are raised with same-sex parents. It is often argued that children raised in heterosexual marriages grow up to be responsible and balanced citizens with respect to children. raised in same-sex marriages. This is because children need both male and female role models to properly learn their role in society. They argue that children raised in same-sex marriages are likely to seek same-sex relationships when they grow up. However, these arguments are based on personal opinions and beliefs as they are not supported by any data. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, there are various similarities and Differences between same-sex marriages and heterosexual marriages. They include; jurisdictions where they are legalized, recognition by law, child adoption, parenting, length of marriage, and health risks.