Family of choice

A family of choice, also known as chosen family, found family, or hānai family[1] is a term that refers to a non-biologically related group of people established to provide ongoing social support.[2]

Unlike a "family of origin" (the biological family or the one in which a person is raised), a family of choice is based on chosen bonds, not biological ones. Families of choice are common within the LGBT community, groups of veterans, supportive communities overcoming addiction or childhood abuse, and friend groups who have little to no contact with their biological parents. It refers to the group of people in an individual's life that satisfies the typical role of family as a support system.

  1. ^ Stitt, Alex (2020). ACT for Gender Identity: The Comprehensive Guide. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers. pp. 372–376. ISBN 978-1785927997. OCLC 1089850112.
  2. ^ Green, R J (Summer 2000). "'Lesbians, Gay Men, and Their Parents': A Critique of LaSala and the Prevailing Clinical 'Wisdom'". Family Process. 39 (2): 257–66. doi:10.1111/j.1545-5300.2000.39208.x. PMID 10907150.