From this perspective, altering the definition of marriage to include same-sex couples may be seen as a violation of religious principles. Opponents of gay marriage may argue that it represents a significant departure from long-standing cultural and traditional norms. Some critics express concerns about the impact of same-sex marriage on children. They argue that children should ideally be raised in households with both a mother and a father, believing that this provides a more balanced and wholesome upbringing. Some argue that governments have a legitimate interest in promoting heterosexual marriage because it can potentially lead to natural procreation and the continuation of the human species.