The lack of official recognition can have detrimental effects on the mental well-being of children in same-sex families. It may lead to feelings of exclusion, invalidation, or insecurity about their family unit. Children may experience stigma or discrimination from peers or society at large due to their family structure not being acknowledged. This lack of validation can contribute to feelings of shame, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues among children raised by same-sex parents.