Conversion attempts mostly lead to harm

By JACK DRESCHER, M.D.

In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association, after careful scientific review, removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. Their decision is supported by the American Psychological Association and the American Medical Association.

Yet, some people with same-sex attractions have religious backgrounds condemning homosexuality. Others wish to avoid the stigma of calling themselves gay. Often these people seek to change their sexual orientation.

How? Historically, psychiatrists gave electric shocks to change patients. It didn't work.

Today, some therapists (incorrectly) tell prospective patients that parents cause homosexuality and therapy can "cure" them. Still others seek religious therapies or support groups. Some try both.

Does it work? The little scientific study done is not encouraging. Most who try do not change — and no long-term studies show that those claiming change remain heterosexual.

Most people seeking change (and therapists trying to change them) believe no price is too high to pay to become heterosexual. However, there are growing reports of people who tried to change, failed, and then felt worse than when they started. Yet, rather than faulting the treatment, they blame themselves, leading to increased feelings of depression, hopelessness, shame and anxiety. Some became suicidal.

Some enter heterosexual marriages — often with a therapist's encouragement or urging. Some have children. However, marriage and children do not necessarily end homosexual desires. Some families fall apart. Those who do not believe in divorce live in tragic circumstances.

Politics fuels publicity

To alert the public to possible harm, the American Psychiatric Association, recommended that "ethical practitioners refrain from attempts to change individuals' sexual orientation, keeping in mind the medical dictum to first, do no harm."

Yet, if conversion therapies usually don't work and may even be harmful, why are they getting so much publicity? The answer is neither medical nor scientific, but political.

Many people believe that homosexuality is inborn or genetic. Truthfully, no one knows what causes homosexuality or heterosexuality, for that matter.

Nevertheless, public-opinion polls show that those who believe one is "born gay" are more likely to support issues like same-sex marriage or civil unions.

Religious social conservatives who oppose gay civil rights argue that homosexual feelings and behaviors are a "learned behavior" that can change. As a behavior, no one is "born gay" and civil rights protections for gay people (which they call "special rights") are therefore unnecessary.

These groups spend a lot of time and money promoting and publicizing conversion therapies. They sell "hope" to people desperate for change. Sadly, in many cases what they are selling is false hope and, in some cases, a damaging experience. Let the buyer beware.

Conversion attempts mostly lead to harm
The Tennessean