Abstract
This paper takes a look at the new and emerging reproductive technologies used today to help couples with fertility issues to have children. The paper focuses specifically on surrogate parenting, discussing the legal and ethical issues that can complicate surrogacy.

From the Paper
"The most commonly raised question is: are we not commercialization children by severing the bond between the natural mother and the child? Closely connected to this question are the feelings of the natural mother who might not want to give up the child once he is born. The legal cases in this regard have only further complicated the whole issue. The baby M case is one of the most well known cases of surrogacy parenting in the US. In 1986, Mary Beth Whitehead entered into a contract with Elizabeth and Daniel Stern to bear a child for them using husband's sperm. However when the child was born, Mary Beth refused to give up the custody which resulted in a bitter battle where many legal and ethical questions surfaced. It was decided by the court that while Sterns would keep the child, Whitehead would have visitation rights. This is not something common because it is decided prior to the birth of the child that natural mother would have no contact with him/her. This brings us to the philosophical question: Who exactly is a mother and what precisely is motherhood?"

Tags:intimacy, bond, parental, rights, laws, exploitation

Abstract
This paper explores the issues of surrogate pregnancy. The various types of surrogacy are defined as well as the possible problems that may arise because of this arrangement. Despite the implications of surrogate parenting, the author concludes that this is a viable means for childless couples to become parents.

From the Paper
"Because gestational surrogacy does not genetically link the host mother with the gestational parents, relinquishment of the child after pregnancy would seem much simpler than if the mother carrying the baby is genetically linked with the baby. Traditional surrogacy, requiring the carrier mother's eggs to conceive a child, automatically brings forth the question of whether the genetic mother should have a continuing relationship with the child after birth (Jaggar, 1994). It is important that couples consider the implications of traditional surrogacy. Still other opponents argue it is more difficult for the genetic or gestational mother to bond with a child she has not carried. There is adequate research however, supporting the role of the genetic mother and legitimizing her right to raising her child (Beckman & Ciccarelli, 2005). This research suggests that genetic mothers when provided ample support and resources are just as likely to raise a healthy child whether they carried the child to term or not."

Tags:surrogate, parenting, pregnancy, egg, donation

Abstract
This paper examines how for many infertile couples, the assistance of a surrogate mother represents one last hope for becoming a genetic parent and therefore they turn to surrogate mothers, or women who bear children for couples who cannot become parents through normal pregnancy and childbirth. It looks at how with careful preparation on both sides, surrogate parenting can be a viable option for couples to conceive a child and add to their family. It also shows how many critics charge that this practice provides another opportunity for couples to exploit poor women.

From the Paper
"The rising popularity of surrogate parenting stems in part from new technology. In the Baby M case, the surrogate mother was also the biological mother, because she was artificially inseminated with the intended father's sperm. Today, however, 95 percent of these types of pregnancy involve "gestational surrogacy," where the intended parents sperm and egg are used to create an embryo, that is then implanted into the surrogate's uterus. Though more expensive than traditional surrogacy, this type also insures that the intended parents are genetically related to their child (Gentry)."

Tags:baby, m, pregnancy, sperm, artificila, insemination

From the Paper
"KELLER V. ROSE: APPELLATE BRIEF

This paper consists of a summary of the facts, the legal issue presented, the legal arguments and points and authorities supporting an appellate brief to be filed by plaintiffs-appellees, Patricia and Stephen Keller ("Plaintiffs" or "the Kellers"), in the appeal of defendants-appellants, Isaiah and Madeline Rose ("Defendants" or "the Roses"), to the Illinois Supreme Court of the decision of the Appellate Court of Illinois in favor of Plaintiffs in Case No. 96-L-2041. The Appellate Court reversed the decision of a trial court in Cook County which had found that a surrogate agreement between the Roses and the Kellers was valid and that the attempt by the Roses to obtain legal custody of the female child, Leah Clare Rose ("Leah"), born pursuant to the surrogate agreement, was in breach thereof."

Abstract
This paper examines various opinions regarding the topic of gay and lesbian parenting. It illustrates clearly that gays and lesbian parents are mentally and emotionally stable enough to provide their children with love, support and attention that they require for success in all areas of life. The commons myths are addressed in this paper and are dispelled as being groundless in fact. This paper also discusses several court rulings concerning this issue.

From the Paper
"The Courts in the United States have tried repeatedly to provide children with a family setting which is recognized by American Family Law. Even the societal changes, which are currently taking place in family structures, the society itself and the legal system of our country have failed to see beyond the myths and misconceptions associated with alternative family structure. Millions of gays and lesbians are now trying to become parents through adoption, insemination and surrogate procedures. No matter which method is finally chosen, it has been repeatedly proven by researchers and pediatric professionals that gay couples are absolutely capable of providing love, support and moral values required for healthy mental and emotional development of children. "

Tags:prejudice, society, family, stability, sexual, emotional, gender

Abstract
This paper portrays the practices of a number of large organizations in Australia as pertains to paid parental leave. Factors influencing the decisions of these organizations are presented and international guidelines are discussed. The writer explains that the Australian government does not require paid leave , relying instead on private initiatives. The need for public discussion and a cohesive policy is underscored.

From the Paper
"There is presently no provision or policy for paid parental leave in Australia and access to such leave is much restricted. Individual enterprise efforts determine the extent to which this leave is available in the community and private sectors and there is still very little knowledge about the basis on which individual companies and businesses introduce the practice of paid parental leave. This paper has drawn upon a number of case studies pertaining to the practices followed in this regard by some large organizations in Australia. Different rationales and perspectives that influence the decisions in such organizations have been outlined in this paper along with the manner in which they are implemented. Paid parental leave continues to be a fundamental issue in effecting equal employment opportunities for women but research has indicated that the potential effect of such a practice is much curtailed by limitations that are imposed on formal entitlements. The basis for such leave is adversely impacted by the practical availability of other family benefits in the working and organizational environment."

Tags:policy, gender inequalities, maternity leave

Abstract
The paper briefly reviews Surrogate Court in New York City as it stood in 1930 and then briefly examines how it stands today. It compares and contrasts any changes that have occurred. The paper suggests that the changes that have taken place to Surrogate Court since the 1930s are largely overshadowed by the continuities.

From the Paper
"Surrogate Court in New York: Yesterday and Today Surrogate Court in New York City has seen both change and continuity since 1930. The following paper will briefly review Surrogate Court as it stood in 1930 and then briefly examine how it stands today. As will become clear, the changes that have taken place since the 1930s are largely overshadowed by the continuities. Specifically, the Courthouse continues to stand indomitably as a stirring testament to the "City Beautiful" movement which swept urban America in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. With that in mind, it is to a brief review of what has changed - and what has not - in that tiny corner of the world that this paper now turns. To begin with, even by 1930, the august Surrogate Court was very much a relic of the past. To wit, it was built between 1899 and 1907 and replaced the old Hall of Records that once stood in City Hall Park."

Tags:surrogate, court, photo

Abstract
The paper looks at Amara Parenting and Adoption Services, an organization that has existed in Washington since 1921 ("Amara Parenting", 2007, para. 1). The paper discusses how the organization has evolved over time, first serving the community as an "orphanage and home for unwed mothers" ("Amara Parenting", 2007, para. 3). The paper then relates that over time, that agency focused on placing the children that were cared for in foster home situations, eventually developing the philosophy that permanent homes were the optimal solution for children that could not return to their homes of origin. Yet, the paper discusses how the existence of the organization in the community has allowed it to be considered a constant support for children and parents considering adoption, and it is an organization that continues to "evolve with the changing needs of society" ("Amara", n.d., sec. 2).

From the Paper
"Amara Parenting and Adoption Services is an organization that has existed in Washington since 1921 ("Amara Parenting", 2007, para. 1). The organization has evolved over time, first serving the community as an "orphanage and home for unwed mothers" ("Amara Parenting", 2007, para. 3). Over time that agency focused on placing the children that were cared for in foster home situations, eventually developing the philosophy that permanent homes were the optimal solution for children that could not return to their homes of origin. Yet, the existence of the organization in the community has allowed it to be considered a constant support for..."

Tags:amara, parenting, adoption

Abstract
This paper explains that the job of parenting is both rewarding and demanding and then looks at ways for improving parenting skills. The paper includes parenting tips and tricks as well as a discussion on improving children's socialization and coping skills.

From the Paper
"According to Kim Selzman, writing in "Woman's Day", being a parent can be a joy but it's also a tough job. Nobody is perfect and every parent makes mistakes. Children require a lot of time and energy so being a good parent means that parents must take care of themselves physically. Selzman adds that everyone needs a break from being a parent once in a while. If someone is a single parent they can and should find friends or relatives to help them get some time for..."

Tags:Parenting skills, tips for parents, caregiving, improving childrens socialization and coping skills

Abstract
The paper discusses the issue of parenting and teaching in Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" and in the film, "Children of Men".

From the Paper
"In a world virtually destroyed by endless wars, a nuclear holocaust or a global pandemic, it is inevitable that even the most basic interpersonal relationships will be changed. This is very much the case in both Cormac McCarthy's novel "The Road" and in Alfonso Cuaron's dystopian film "Children of Men". This essay will consider the effects of a global conflagration of some type on parenting, considering the two new worlds depicted in the novel and the film and arguing that parenting..."

Tags:parenting, Children of Men, The Road