Psychologist, researcher and author Diane Ehrensaft talks about the psychological experience of parenting children conceived through the assistance of a donor. Diane describes the challenges parents face in coping with “genetic assymetry” between the parents, and fears that disclosing to the child will undermine bonding with the non-biological parent. Diane also speaks of the challenges for the child who may experience, “genealogical bewilderment” if the donor is anonymous, and their own need to establish a sense of identity and belonging. Diane affirms the value of open discussion in families that decrease the potential shame and ultimately affirm the deep bonds that parents have with their children.
