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'''Reparative therapy''', or '''conversion therapy''', is any of several controversial religious or ] techniques that are aimed at changing a person's ] from ] to ] (or ]). Their efficacy has not been established, and most professionals warn that such attempts may be psychologically harmful. Advocates claim that sexual orientation is changeable and that homosexuality is itself either a psychological disorder, a sin, a tendency toward immoral and harmful behaviours (to oneself and others), or make several of these assertions. '''Reparative therapy''', or '''conversion therapy''', is any of several techniques that are aimed at helping a person change his/her ] from ] to ] (or ]). Advocates claim that sexual orientation is changeable and that individuals have the right to seek such help if they are uncomfortable with their sexual orientation. Antagonists claim that such attempts may be psychologically harmful.


== Techniques == == Techniques ==


Reparative therapy refers to a specific ] technique for changing ] or ] subjects into heterosexuals, but can be used more loosely to describe any formal attempt to alter a person's sexual orientation. A key focus in many reparative therapies includes identifying underlying homoerotic desires in subjects - typically referred to as "strugglers" or "ex-gays" by reparative therapists - and attempting to replace them with non-sexual means of expression, usually by encouraging the subject to form an emotional but non-sexual bond with another adult of the same ]. During counselling much stress is placed upon the perceived risks, health and otherwise, of same-sex attraction. Reparative therapy refers to a specific ] technique for changing ] or ] subjects into heterosexuals, but can be used more loosely to describe any formal attempt to alter a person's sexual orientation. A key focus in many reparative therapies includes identifying underlying homoerotic desires in subjects - typically referred to as "strugglers" or "ex-gays" - and attempting to replace them with non-sexual means of expression, usually by encouraging the subject to form an emotional but non-sexual bond with another adult of the same ].


Secular techniques also rely upon reading, sport or physical activity. Reparative therapists generally come from a religious perspective, particularly Christian, and encourage religiousness and prayer. Secular techniques also rely upon reading, sport or physical activity. Reparative therapists generally come from a religious perspective, particularly Christian, and encourage religiousness and prayer.


Religious reparative therapies, such as those practised by ] transformational ministries, include one-on-one counselling, group counselling, ], ], reading ] and ]. Techniques have included controversial therapies such as ] and ] (such as showing subjects ] material whilst inducing nausea and vomiting through drugs). Religious reparative therapies, such as those practised by ] transformational ministries, include one-on-one counselling, group counselling, ], ], reading ] and ].


== Doctrine == == Doctrine ==


Contemporary secular reparative therapy, as championed by leading reparative therapists ] and ], holds that homosexuality is the product of a mental disorder they describe as "] deficit" caused by an alienation from, and perceived rejection by, individuals of the subject's gender. This, it is argued, leads to a quest for bonding and fulfilment, oftentimes in what is perceived to be inappropriate and dysfunctional manners such as compulsive sexual gratification. It describes homosexuality as the need to possess the perceived manhood or womanhood of the object of desire: Contemporary secular reparative therapy, as championed by leading reparative therapists ] and ], holds that homosexuality is the product of "] deficit" caused by an alienation from, and perceived rejection by, individuals of the subject's gender. This, it is argued, leads to a quest for bonding and fulfilment, oftentimes in what is perceived to be inappropriate and dysfunctional manners such as compulsive sexual gratification. It describes homosexuality as the need to possess the perceived manhood or womanhood of the object of desire:


:''"The basic premise of reparative therapy is that the majority of clients (approximately 90%, in my experience) suffer from a syndrome of male ] deficit. It is this internal sense of incompleteness in one's own maleness which is the essential foundation for homoerotic attraction. The causal rule of reparative therapy is "Gender identity determines sexual orientation." We eroticize what we are not identified with. The focus of treatment therefore is the full development of the client's masculine gender identity."''] :''"The basic premise of reparative therapy is that the majority of clients (approximately 90%, in my experience) suffer from a syndrome of male ] deficit. It is this internal sense of incompleteness in one's own maleness which is the essential foundation for homoerotic attraction. The causal rule of reparative therapy is "Gender identity determines sexual orientation." We eroticize what we are not identified with. The focus of treatment therefore is the full development of the client's masculine gender identity."'']
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Nicolosi suggests the subject, as a boy, first experiences rejection by his father, then lapses into helplessness and finally retreats to the security of his mother and defensively detaches from his father. According to his theories, this ] emotionally isolates him from other males and from his own masculinity hence, according to reparative therapists, causing homosexuality. Nicolosi suggests the subject, as a boy, first experiences rejection by his father, then lapses into helplessness and finally retreats to the security of his mother and defensively detaches from his father. According to his theories, this ] emotionally isolates him from other males and from his own masculinity hence, according to reparative therapists, causing homosexuality.


In general reparative therapists hold that homosexuality is caused by environmental factors, and reparative therapies focus on discovery of historical factors that could have influenced the development of their homoerotic emotions in a subject. See ] for more information on this debate. In general reparative therapists hold that homosexuality is caused by environmental factors, and reparative therapies focus on discovery of historical factors that could have influenced the development of their homoerotic emotions in a subject. See ] for more information.


It is worth noting that reparative therapists hold that a propensity for an emotional ] would seem to exist in all men, for example, as is evidenced by the male need for camaraderie and bonding. It is in the fulfilment of these unfulfilled needs that they believe the cure for homosexual attraction is to be found. Hence, it is not the innate emotional need for same-sex bonding that reparative therapy tries to correct, but what reparative therapists see as its dysfunctional expressions. It is worth noting that reparative therapists hold that a propensity for an emotional ] would seem to exist in all men, for example, as is evidenced by the male need for camaraderie and bonding. It is in the fulfilment of these unfulfilled needs that they believe the cure for homosexual attraction is to be found. Hence, it is not the innate emotional need for same-sex bonding that reparative therapy tries to correct, but its dysfunctional expressions.


=== Criticisms === === Criticisms ===


The thinking behind reparative therapy has been criticised by psychological and psychiatric health professionals for perceived ]. Most notably, reparative therapy is based upon the assumption that homosexuality is innately negative or unhealthy and thus that change is desirable, which does not necessarily follow from current research. Critics note that these assumptions seemed to be based more upon religious objections to homosexuality rather than any objective analysis or empirical evidence. Critics also note that reparative therapy research focuses on male homosexuality almost exclusively and rarely takes into consideration female homosexuality, demonstrating further clinical research bias. The thinking behind reparative therapy has been criticised by some psychological and psychiatric health professionals who conclude that attempts to change a person's sexual orientation may cause pyschological harm. Critics note that reparative therapy research focuses on male homosexuality almost exclusively and rarely takes into consideration female homosexuality.


Finally, they criticise reparative therapy for its lack of peer review (see ]) and the fact that reports are published exclusively in non-peer reviewed journals, in particular ], which has been criticised for its lack of peer review and strong, anti-gay bias. Some also criticise reparative therapy for its lack of peer review (see ]) and the fact that many reports are published in non-peer reviewed journals.


== History == == History ==


The idea of altering a person sexual orientation is not a new idea and harkens back to the start of ] itself. By classifying homosexuality as a disorder, ] first defined homosexuality as an exclusive sexual orientation and, thus, discovered the possibility of altering that orientation]. Researchers such as ], ] and ] attempted to cure homosexuality through a variety of techniques, including "], nausea producing drugs, ], ], ], ], etc.". For more information see ]. The idea of altering a person sexual orientation is not a new idea and harkens back to the start of ] itself. By classifying homosexuality as a disorder, ] first defined homosexuality as an exclusive sexual orientation and, thus, discovered the possibility of altering that orientation]. Many years ago, researchers such as ], ] and ] attempted to cure homosexuality through a variety of techniques, including "], nausea producing drugs, ], ], ], ], etc.". For more information see ].


Modern reparative therapy is a re-reading of the earlier, psychological research and stems from the clinical work and theories of ], a British Christian ], during the early ]. In her book, ']', which is widely read by reparative therapy proponents, she suggests that homosexuality is purely a result of environmental factors - primarily a failure to bond with the subject's father, as opposed to the domineering mother theory in ] ]. Modern reparative therapy has come a long way since these early times, beginning with the clinical work and theories of British psychologist ] during the early ]. In her book, ']', which is widely read by reparative therapy proponents, she suggests that homosexuality is a result of environmental factors - primarily a failure to bond with the subject's father, as opposed to the domineering mother theory in ] ].


Initially, reparative therapy was welcomed by many ']' and ] Christian groups who saw it as a means of reconciling their beliefs with their sexuality and as a way of gaining greater acceptance in their respective churches or ministries. Some of these ministries have since turned away from reparative therapies, disillusioned with promise to change their sexuality. Reparative therapy was welcomed by many ']' and ] Christian groups who saw it as a means of reconciling their beliefs with their sexuality and as a way of gaining greater acceptance in their respective churches or ministries.


Once seen as a being on the fringe of the gay rights argument, lately reparative therapy has been adopted by much larger, ] religious groups, particularly in the ]. Many in these groups see reparative as a kinder way of approaching their opposition to homosexuality. It has also been used by some of these groups to influence public opinion and sway legislators "from supporting ], ] and ] legislation." Once seen as a being on the fringe of the gay rights argument, lately reparative therapy has been adopted by much larger, ] religious groups, particularly in the ]. Many in these groups see reparative as a way of providing options to those who experience same-sex attraction.


== Controversy == == Controversy ==


Reparative therapy itself is a highly contentious and controversial topic, and the claims of the ex-gay movement are hotly contested, particularly by various professional medical bodies (see ]). The general scientific consensus has been that ] is unchangeable in adults, though this consensus and the cause for that immutability are disputed by reparative therapy advocates. This section seeks to detail and summarise the various controversies and debates surrounding reparative therapy. Reparative therapy is a controversial topic, and the claims of the ex-gay movement are hotly contested, particularly by various professional medical bodies (see ]). Opponents claim that ] is unchangeable and that individuals should not be provided the option of reparative therapy. They have lobbied professional organizations to make such treatment unethical. In recent years, the psychological associations have eased their resistance to reparative therapy. This section seeks to detail and summarise the various controversies and debates surrounding reparative therapy.


Generally, the debate tends to focus on traditional arguments for and against homosexuality. Opponents view these therapies as a product of ] and ] of the gay and ] ], whilst supporters argue that opposition to reparative therapies is only due to vocal minority groups. These arguments are not necessarily directly related to reparative therapy and are not repeated here. For more information see ], ] and ]. Generally, the debate tends to focus on traditional arguments for and against homosexuality. Opponents view these therapies as a product of ] and ] of the gay and ] ], whilst supporters argue that opposition to reparative therapies is only due to vocal minority groups. These arguments are not necessarily directly related to reparative therapy and are not repeated here. For more information see ], ] and ].
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=== Proponents === === Proponents ===


Various religious and ex-gay organizations, including ], ], ] and the ], as well as various minor ex-gay and transformational ministries advocate the belief that reparative therapy is genuine and works. Various religious and ex-gay organizations, including ], ], ], ], the ], as well as various minor ex-gay and transformational ministries advocate the belief that reparative therapy works, and that individuals should be given the option of seeking to change their sexual orientation. Such therapies are also advocated by religious ] groups such as the ] and ].

Conversion therapies are also advocated by various religious ] groups such as the ] and ].

Specific proponents, such as Charles Socarides, often have gay sons, leading some to suspect they are working out their own psychological issues in public through their advocacy of a therapy that doesn't work.


=== Opponents === === Opponents ===
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Reparative therapies are opposed by a variety of groups, including gay rights organizations such as ], ] and ]. Reparative therapies are opposed by a variety of groups, including gay rights organizations such as ], ] and ].


More importantly, many various professional medical and psychological bodies condemn conversion therapies. Such bodies include: Some professional medical and psychological bodies discourage conversion therapies. Such bodies include:


* ] (APA) * ] (APA)
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* ]. * ].


⚫ On the question of changing sexual orientation, the APA states ''Some homosexual or bisexual people may seek to change their sexual orientation through therapy, sometimes pressured by the influence of family members or religious groups to try and do so. The reality is that homosexuality is not an illness. It does not require treatment and is not changeable."''
On the question of whether therapy can change sexual orientation the APA answers:
⚫ :''"No. Even though most homosexuals live successful, happy lives, some homosexual or bisexual people may seek to change their sexual orientation through therapy, sometimes pressured by the influence of family members or religious groups to try and do so. The reality is that homosexuality is not an illness. It does not require treatment and is not changeable."''


Some religious organisations also oppose reparative therapies, including ], ] and ]. Some religious organizations also oppose reparative therapies, including ], ] and ].


In 1999, the ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] developed and endorsed a statement reading: In 1999, the ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] developed and endorsed a statement reading:


*''The most important fact about '],' also sometimes known as 'conversion' therapy, is that it is based on an understanding of homosexuality that has been rejected by all the major health and mental health professions. The ], the ], the ], the ], the ], and the ], together representing more than 477,000 health and mental health professionals, have all taken the position that homosexuality is not a mental disorder and thus there is no need for a 'cure.' ...health and mental health professional organizations do not support efforts to change young people's sexual orientation through ']' and have raised serious concerns about its potential to do ].'' *''The most important fact about '],' also sometimes known as 'conversion' therapy, is that it is based on an understanding of homosexuality that has been rejected by all the major health and mental health professions. The ], the ], the ], the ], the ], and the ], together representing more than 477,000 health and mental health professionals, have all taken the position that homosexuality is not a mental disorder and thus there is no need for a 'cure.' ...health and mental health professional organizations do not support efforts to change young people's sexual orientation through ']' and have raised serious concerns about its potential to do ].''

=== Terminology ===

The language used to describe reparative therapies is itself contentious. Opponents prefer to use the term "conversion therapy".


=== Sexual Orientation === === Sexual Orientation ===


The main controversy centers on whether or not sexual orientation is determined at birth and, hence, whether it is changeable or innate. For more information on these arguments please see ] and ]. The main controversy centers on whether or not sexual orientation is determined at birth and, hence, whether it is changeable or innate. For more information on these arguments see ] and ].


Supporters of reparative therapy believe that homosexuality is not a fixed ] but an emotional or mental disorder which a person can change, and that it should be reclassified as such. They refer to this disorder as ] so as to distinguish from a fixed or innate sexual orientation. Supporters of reparative therapy believe that homosexuality is not a fixed ] but an emotional status which a person can change if they so choose.


Generally, opponents of reparative therapy believe that sexual orientation is fixed and, hence, that reparative therapies will always be ineffective and raise false hopes in vulnerable individuals. Some opponents agree that sexual orientation is changeable but argue that, despite this, there is no, or no great, moral imperative to try to do so or that doing so would not substantially improve the well-being of the subject and, for this reason, consider reparative therapies to be useless. Some opponents of reparative therapy believe that sexual orientation is fixed and, hence, that reparative therapies will always be ineffective and raise false hopes in vulnerable individuals. Other opponents agree that sexual orientation is changeable but argue that, despite this, there is no moral imperative to try to do so or that doing so would not substantially improve the well-being of the subject and, for this reason, consider reparative therapies to be useless.


=== Evidence === === Evidence ===


The success or failure of reparative therapy is itself sometimes used in the mainstream debate for and against homosexuality and the past few years have seen a flurry of reports self-published by reparative therapists and ex-gay organisations describing ] of conversions and measuring success rates from 30% to over 70%. The success or failure of reparative therapy is itself sometimes used in the mainstream debate for and against homosexuality and the past few years have seen a flurry of reports by reparative therapists and ex-gay organizations describing evidence of conversions and measuring success rates from 30% to over 70%.


Opponents contest these results and respond that many of these groups do not make a clear distinction between homosexual behaviour and orientation or do not take into consideration that subjects may be bisexual and, for example, may have simply been convinced to restrict their sexual activity to the opposite sex. Similarly, many of the studies released by reparative therapy groups are conducted over short periods of time and there are few follow-up studies to determine rates of relapse over the long-term. Opponents contest these results and respond that many of these groups do not make a clear distinction between homosexual behavior and orientation or do not take into consideration that subjects may be bisexual and, for example, may have simply been convinced to restrict their sexual activity to the opposite sex. There are few long-term studies to prove either position.


Finally, they criticise the way reparative therapies define success: many of their clients appear to still feel homosexual attraction or their orientation appears to not have been changed and the client is merely ]. Both results are considered successful, 'partial' conversions by reparative therapists. Reparative therapists respond that the case against reparative therapy has not been proved and this variability in success should not be viewed as a therapeutic failure. Finally, they criticize the way reparative therapies define success: many of their clients appear to still feel homosexual attraction or their orientation appears to not have been changed and the client is merely ]. Both results are considered successful, 'partial' conversions by reparative therapists.


Opponents also highlight that the lack of ] demonstrates that reparative therapies are experimental or ] techniques that lack scientific rigour to back them up. Results are not published in peer reviewed journals but tend to be released to the ] and the ] (see ]), random samples of subjects are not used and results are reliant upon the subject's own self-reported outcomes or on the therapist's own evaluations which may be subject to ]. Opponents argue that reports of success rely on the subjects' own self-reported outcomes or on the therapists' own evaluations which may be subject to ].


The American Psychiatric Association (APA) (which concluded in 1973 that homosexuality is not a mental illness) stated in a ] position statement unanimously endorsed by its Board of Trustees that there are no scientifically rigorous studies to indicate the actual ''"efficacy or harm of 'reparative' treatments"'' and that conversion therapists have yet to produce ''"any rigorous scientific research to substantiate their claims of cure... Recent publicized efforts to repathologize homosexuality by claiming that it can be cured are often guided not by rigorous scientific or psychiatric research, but sometimes by religious and political forces opposed to full civil rights for gay men and lesbians."'' The APA position statement ends with a recommendation for ethical practitioners to ''"refrain from attempts to change individuals' sexual orientation, keeping in mind the medical dictum to first, do no harm."'' (see ]). The American Psychiatric Association (APA) (which concluded in 1973 that homosexuality is not a mental illness) stated in a ] position statement that there are no studies to indicate the actual ''"efficacy or harm of 'reparative' treatments"'' and that conversion therapists have yet to produce ''"any rigorous scientific research to substantiate their claims of cure... Recent publicized efforts to repathologize homosexuality by claiming that it can be cured are often guided not by rigorous scientific or psychiatric research, but sometimes by religious and political forces opposed to full civil rights for gay men and lesbians."'' The APA position statement ends with a recommendation for ethical practitioners to ''"refrain from attempts to change individuals' sexual orientation, keeping in mind the medical dictum to first, do no harm."'' (see ]).


Reparative therapists respond to criticisms from these bodies, arguing that opposition from the professional psychological and medical community is due to various political forces from within and without. They argue that the lack of evidence supporting their claims is to be expected, as the political pressures by various political groups, in particular gay rights groups, are such that any attempt at proper testing and study are quashed by the APA and other governing bodies. Reparative therapists respond to criticisms from these bodies, arguing that opposition from the professional psychological and medical community is due to various political forces from within and without. They argue that the lack of evidence supporting their claims is to be expected, as the political pressures by various political groups, in particular gay rights groups, are such that any attempt at proper testing and study are quashed by the APA and other governing bodies.

Recently, the Executive Director of the American Psychological Association, Raymond Fowler, stated: "The APA's position on reparative therapy is that those who wish to explore developing heterosexual feelings or behavior have a right to do so as part of every client's right to self-determination. If an individual is comfortable with homosexuality, it is not the role of the therapist to convince the client otherwise. If one's feelings are ego-dystonic and there is a desire to talk about changing, that is an acceptable choice and a psychologist may participate if he or she desires."


==== Spitzer Report ==== ==== Spitzer Report ====


Further controversy ensued in May ] when Dr. ], who was involved in the original declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, presented a paper on reparative therapy at the APA annual convention. In his paper he reported that he had found that 66% of the men and 44% of the women had achieved "good heterosexual functioning" through interventions. Advocates of reparative therapy saw this as the first step towards official acceptance and the legitimisation of reparative therapy. Opponents levelled the similar criticisms at Spitzer's paper: that it relied upon samples selected by reparative therapists themselves, that proper random samplings were not used, small samplings were used (143 men and 57 women), that the subjects appeared to be ex-gay advocates who may have be biased in favor of reparative therapies, and that no follow-up study had been carried out to ascertain the long-term success. Similarly, they pointed to the fact that 60% of participants had previously experienced attraction to both sexes. Spitzer himself played down the results of his own paper, saying that the number of homosexuals who could successfully become heterosexual was likely to be "pretty low." A similar paper presented by Dr. ] and Dr. ], which has since been published for peer review, presented much lower success rates. Further controversy ensued in May ] when Dr. ], who was involved in the original declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, presented a paper on reparative therapy at the APA annual convention. In his paper he reported that he had found that 66% of the men and 44% of the women had achieved "good heterosexual functioning" through interventions. He stated that "some people can and do change. Like most psychiatrists, I thought that homosexual behavior could only be resisted, and that no one could really change their sexual orientation. I now believe this to be false." Advocates of reparative therapy see this as the first step towards official acceptance and the legitimization of reparative therapy. Opponents contest that Spitzer's study relied upon samples selected by reparative therapists themselves and that small samplings were used (143 men and 57 women). Follow-up studies need to ascertain the long-term success. A similar paper presented by Dr. ] and Dr. ], which has since been published for peer review, presented similar success rates.


=== Potential risks === === Potential risks ===


Individuals who seek reparative therapy claim they are being helped in reducing unwanted same-sex erotic desires and homosexual behavior. Opponents argue that reparative therapies may, in fact, be potentially dangerous. Some of the more extreme therapies that were used many years ago (such as electro-shock therapy and ]) have long histories of being psychologically and physically harmful. Opponents also claim that such therapies seek to exploit guilt and anxiety leading to further psychological problems.] No study has been yet carried out into the long-term consequences of conversion therapies.
Conversion therapies are frequently promoted as being helpful and safe. Reparative therapists claim they are helping those afflicted with unwanted and intrusive homosexual thoughts and point to the fact that many of their patients have expressed that they were not harmed by such procedures and, although not always having the desired effect, seemed to have some benefits.

However opponents argue that there is no evidence that reparative therapies are safe, and they may in fact be potentially dangerous. Some of the more extreme therapies that have been used (such as electro-shock therapy and ]) have long histories of being psychologically and physically harmful. However, such therapies are not commonly used by contemporary conversion therapists.

Opponents go further and claim that "softer" therapies such as the secular conversion counselling therapies may also be dangerous. They compare untested reparative therapies to other experimental therapies such as ] (used in unproven cases of ]) and ], that have much in common with reparative therapies (i.e. they are all experimental therapies that have only been promoted by a minority of therapists and clergy) which have proven to cause emotional pain, devastated peoples lives and even resulted in suicide. They also claim that such therapies seek to exploit guilt and anxiety leading to further psychological problems.]

No study has been yet carried out into the long-term consequences of conversion therapies.


=== Social pressures === === Social pressures ===


Reparative therapists’, working from the assumption that homosexuality is a mental disorder, often argue that their therapies are voluntary and the people seek them out because of negative aspects intrinsic to homosexuality. Opponents argue that reparative therapists ignore research that demonstrates that ] plays a key role in an individuals attempt to alter their homosexuality. ]],]] They argue that harassment, abuse and ], as well as pressure from family, friends and Churches ]], may cause high levels of emotional stress for ], ] and ]. In these circumstances, they argue, individuals may feel their only option is to attempt to alter their homosexuality. Reparative therapists often argue that their therapies are voluntary and the people seek them out because of negative aspects intrinsic to homosexuality. Opponents argue that reparative therapists ignore research that demonstrates that ] plays a key role in an individuals attempt to alter their homosexuality. ]],]] They argue that harassment, abuse and ], as well as pressure from family, friends and Churches ]], may cause high levels of emotional stress for ], ] and ]. In these circumstances, they argue, individuals may feel their only option is to attempt to alter their homosexuality.


=== Financial gain === === Financial gain ===


Finally, opponents argue that many reparative therapists may become involved for personal financial gain. They note that participants in conversion therapies frequently have to pay for the treatment they receive, and that, whilst many conversion therapists claim to be secular and independent of religion, they receive substantial funding from other, well-funded religious groups such as Focus on the Family. Finally, opponents argue that many reparative therapists may become involved for personal financial gain. They note that participants in conversion therapies frequently have to pay for the treatment they receive.


==Transsexual and transgender people== ==Transsexual and transgender people==

Reparative therapy aimed at gay or lesbian people has also been applied to ] and ] people, since a non-traditional ] or a ] is seen as an extreme form of homosexuality. While the ] expressed a similar view, the scientific community today rejects this theory, making reparative therapy as useless to trans* people as it is for gay and lesbian people. Reparative therapy aimed at gay or lesbian people has also been applied to ] and ] people, since a non-traditional ] or a ] is seen as an extreme form of homosexuality on the ].


== References == == References ==
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=== Reparative Therapist Ministries and Organisations === === Reparative Therapist Ministries and Organisations ===


* which advocates reparative therapy. * a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to affirming a complementary, male-female model of gender and sexuality.
*The is an interdenominational Christian organization which advocates reparative therapy. *The is an interdenominational Christian organization.
* is an interdenominational Christian organization advocating reparative therapy and repentance for homosexuals. * is an interdenominational Christian organization.
*.
* *
* *

Revision as of 16:13, 23 May 2005

Reparative therapy, or conversion therapy, is any of several techniques that are aimed at helping a person change his/her sexual orientation from homosexuality to heterosexuality (or ex-gay). Advocates claim that sexual orientation is changeable and that individuals have the right to seek such help if they are uncomfortable with their sexual orientation. Antagonists claim that such attempts may be psychologically harmful.

Techniques

Reparative therapy refers to a specific counselling technique for changing gay or lesbian subjects into heterosexuals, but can be used more loosely to describe any formal attempt to alter a person's sexual orientation. A key focus in many reparative therapies includes identifying underlying homoerotic desires in subjects - typically referred to as "strugglers" or "ex-gays" - and attempting to replace them with non-sexual means of expression, usually by encouraging the subject to form an emotional but non-sexual bond with another adult of the same gender.

Secular techniques also rely upon reading, sport or physical activity. Reparative therapists generally come from a religious perspective, particularly Christian, and encourage religiousness and prayer.

Religious reparative therapies, such as those practised by Christian transformational ministries, include one-on-one counselling, group counselling, prayer, fasting, reading scripture and meditation.

Doctrine

Contemporary secular reparative therapy, as championed by leading reparative therapists Joseph Nicolosi and Charles Socarides, holds that homosexuality is the product of "gender-identity deficit" caused by an alienation from, and perceived rejection by, individuals of the subject's gender. This, it is argued, leads to a quest for bonding and fulfilment, oftentimes in what is perceived to be inappropriate and dysfunctional manners such as compulsive sexual gratification. It describes homosexuality as the need to possess the perceived manhood or womanhood of the object of desire:

"The basic premise of reparative therapy is that the majority of clients (approximately 90%, in my experience) suffer from a syndrome of male gender-identity deficit. It is this internal sense of incompleteness in one's own maleness which is the essential foundation for homoerotic attraction. The causal rule of reparative therapy is "Gender identity determines sexual orientation." We eroticize what we are not identified with. The focus of treatment therefore is the full development of the client's masculine gender identity."1

Nicolosi suggests the subject, as a boy, first experiences rejection by his father, then lapses into helplessness and finally retreats to the security of his mother and defensively detaches from his father. According to his theories, this defensive detachment emotionally isolates him from other males and from his own masculinity hence, according to reparative therapists, causing homosexuality.

In general reparative therapists hold that homosexuality is caused by environmental factors, and reparative therapies focus on discovery of historical factors that could have influenced the development of their homoerotic emotions in a subject. See Causes of sexual orientation for more information.

It is worth noting that reparative therapists hold that a propensity for an emotional bisexuality would seem to exist in all men, for example, as is evidenced by the male need for camaraderie and bonding. It is in the fulfilment of these unfulfilled needs that they believe the cure for homosexual attraction is to be found. Hence, it is not the innate emotional need for same-sex bonding that reparative therapy tries to correct, but its dysfunctional expressions.

Criticisms

The thinking behind reparative therapy has been criticised by some psychological and psychiatric health professionals who conclude that attempts to change a person's sexual orientation may cause pyschological harm. Critics note that reparative therapy research focuses on male homosexuality almost exclusively and rarely takes into consideration female homosexuality.

Some also criticise reparative therapy for its lack of peer review (see Evidence) and the fact that many reports are published in non-peer reviewed journals.

History

The idea of altering a person sexual orientation is not a new idea and harkens back to the start of psychology itself. By classifying homosexuality as a disorder, psychoanalysis first defined homosexuality as an exclusive sexual orientation and, thus, discovered the possibility of altering that orientation2. Many years ago, researchers such as Irving Bieber, Lawrence Hatterer and Sigmund Freud attempted to cure homosexuality through a variety of techniques, including "aversion therapy, nausea producing drugs, castration, electric shock, brain surgery, breast amputations, etc.". For more information see Homosexuality and psychology.

Modern reparative therapy has come a long way since these early times, beginning with the clinical work and theories of British psychologist Elizabeth Moberly during the early 1980s. In her book, 'Homosexuality: A new Christian ethic', which is widely read by reparative therapy proponents, she suggests that homosexuality is a result of environmental factors - primarily a failure to bond with the subject's father, as opposed to the domineering mother theory in Freudian psychoanalysis.

Reparative therapy was welcomed by many 'Ex-Gay' and gay Christian groups who saw it as a means of reconciling their beliefs with their sexuality and as a way of gaining greater acceptance in their respective churches or ministries.

Once seen as a being on the fringe of the gay rights argument, lately reparative therapy has been adopted by much larger, conservative religious groups, particularly in the USA. Many in these groups see reparative as a way of providing options to those who experience same-sex attraction.

Controversy

Reparative therapy is a controversial topic, and the claims of the ex-gay movement are hotly contested, particularly by various professional medical bodies (see Opponents). Opponents claim that sexual orientation is unchangeable and that individuals should not be provided the option of reparative therapy. They have lobbied professional organizations to make such treatment unethical. In recent years, the psychological associations have eased their resistance to reparative therapy. This section seeks to detail and summarise the various controversies and debates surrounding reparative therapy.

Generally, the debate tends to focus on traditional arguments for and against homosexuality. Opponents view these therapies as a product of Christian fundamentalism and intolerance of the gay and lesbian minorities, whilst supporters argue that opposition to reparative therapies is only due to vocal minority groups. These arguments are not necessarily directly related to reparative therapy and are not repeated here. For more information see Religion and homosexuality, Homosexuality and morality and Gay rights.

Proponents

Various religious and ex-gay organizations, including PFOX, Exodus International, NARTH, Evergreen International, the International Healing Foundation, as well as various minor ex-gay and transformational ministries advocate the belief that reparative therapy works, and that individuals should be given the option of seeking to change their sexual orientation. Such therapies are also advocated by religious family values groups such as the Family Research Council and Focus on the Family.

Opponents

Reparative therapies are opposed by a variety of groups, including gay rights organizations such as GLAAD, Stonewall and Outrage.

Some professional medical and psychological bodies discourage conversion therapies. Such bodies include:

On the question of changing sexual orientation, the APA states Some homosexual or bisexual people may seek to change their sexual orientation through therapy, sometimes pressured by the influence of family members or religious groups to try and do so. The reality is that homosexuality is not an illness. It does not require treatment and is not changeable."

Some religious organizations also oppose reparative therapies, including The Interfaith Alliance, New Ways Ministries and People for the American Way.

In 1999, the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Counseling Association, American Association of School Administrators, American Federation of Teachers, American Psychological Association, American School Health Association, Interfaith Alliance Foundation, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of Social Workers, and National Education Association developed and endorsed a statement reading:

Sexual Orientation

The main controversy centers on whether or not sexual orientation is determined at birth and, hence, whether it is changeable or innate. For more information on these arguments see Causes of sexual orientation and Environment, choice, and sexual orientation.

Supporters of reparative therapy believe that homosexuality is not a fixed sexual orientation but an emotional status which a person can change if they so choose.

Some opponents of reparative therapy believe that sexual orientation is fixed and, hence, that reparative therapies will always be ineffective and raise false hopes in vulnerable individuals. Other opponents agree that sexual orientation is changeable but argue that, despite this, there is no moral imperative to try to do so or that doing so would not substantially improve the well-being of the subject and, for this reason, consider reparative therapies to be useless.

Evidence

The success or failure of reparative therapy is itself sometimes used in the mainstream debate for and against homosexuality and the past few years have seen a flurry of reports by reparative therapists and ex-gay organizations describing evidence of conversions and measuring success rates from 30% to over 70%.

Opponents contest these results and respond that many of these groups do not make a clear distinction between homosexual behavior and orientation or do not take into consideration that subjects may be bisexual and, for example, may have simply been convinced to restrict their sexual activity to the opposite sex. There are few long-term studies to prove either position.

Finally, they criticize the way reparative therapies define success: many of their clients appear to still feel homosexual attraction or their orientation appears to not have been changed and the client is merely celibate. Both results are considered successful, 'partial' conversions by reparative therapists.

Opponents argue that reports of success rely on the subjects' own self-reported outcomes or on the therapists' own evaluations which may be subject to social desirability bias.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) (which concluded in 1973 that homosexuality is not a mental illness) stated in a 1998 position statement that there are no studies to indicate the actual "efficacy or harm of 'reparative' treatments" and that conversion therapists have yet to produce "any rigorous scientific research to substantiate their claims of cure... Recent publicized efforts to repathologize homosexuality by claiming that it can be cured are often guided not by rigorous scientific or psychiatric research, but sometimes by religious and political forces opposed to full civil rights for gay men and lesbians." The APA position statement ends with a recommendation for ethical practitioners to "refrain from attempts to change individuals' sexual orientation, keeping in mind the medical dictum to first, do no harm." (see Potential risks).

Reparative therapists respond to criticisms from these bodies, arguing that opposition from the professional psychological and medical community is due to various political forces from within and without. They argue that the lack of evidence supporting their claims is to be expected, as the political pressures by various political groups, in particular gay rights groups, are such that any attempt at proper testing and study are quashed by the APA and other governing bodies.

Recently, the Executive Director of the American Psychological Association, Raymond Fowler, stated: "The APA's position on reparative therapy is that those who wish to explore developing heterosexual feelings or behavior have a right to do so as part of every client's right to self-determination. If an individual is comfortable with homosexuality, it is not the role of the therapist to convince the client otherwise. If one's feelings are ego-dystonic and there is a desire to talk about changing, that is an acceptable choice and a psychologist may participate if he or she desires."

Spitzer Report

Further controversy ensued in May 2001 when Dr. Robert Spitzer, who was involved in the original declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, presented a paper on reparative therapy at the APA annual convention. In his paper he reported that he had found that 66% of the men and 44% of the women had achieved "good heterosexual functioning" through interventions. He stated that "some people can and do change. Like most psychiatrists, I thought that homosexual behavior could only be resisted, and that no one could really change their sexual orientation. I now believe this to be false." Advocates of reparative therapy see this as the first step towards official acceptance and the legitimization of reparative therapy. Opponents contest that Spitzer's study relied upon samples selected by reparative therapists themselves and that small samplings were used (143 men and 57 women). Follow-up studies need to ascertain the long-term success. A similar paper presented by Dr. Ariel Shidlo and Dr. Michael Schroeder, which has since been published for peer review, presented similar success rates.

Potential risks

Individuals who seek reparative therapy claim they are being helped in reducing unwanted same-sex erotic desires and homosexual behavior. Opponents argue that reparative therapies may, in fact, be potentially dangerous. Some of the more extreme therapies that were used many years ago (such as electro-shock therapy and aversion therapy) have long histories of being psychologically and physically harmful. Opponents also claim that such therapies seek to exploit guilt and anxiety leading to further psychological problems.6 No study has been yet carried out into the long-term consequences of conversion therapies.

Social pressures

Reparative therapists often argue that their therapies are voluntary and the people seek them out because of negative aspects intrinsic to homosexuality. Opponents argue that reparative therapists ignore research that demonstrates that social pressure plays a key role in an individuals attempt to alter their homosexuality. , They argue that harassment, abuse and homophobia, as well as pressure from family, friends and Churches , may cause high levels of emotional stress for lesbian, gays and bisexuals. In these circumstances, they argue, individuals may feel their only option is to attempt to alter their homosexuality.

Financial gain

Finally, opponents argue that many reparative therapists may become involved for personal financial gain. They note that participants in conversion therapies frequently have to pay for the treatment they receive.

Transsexual and transgender people

Reparative therapy aimed at gay or lesbian people has also been applied to transsexual and transgender people, since a non-traditional gender identity or a gender identity disorder is seen as an extreme form of homosexuality on the Kinsey scale.

References

  • Joseph Nicolosi, Ph.D., Reparative Therapy of Male Homosexuality, Rowman & Littlefield, 2004, ISBN 0765701421
  • Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Homosexuality
  • Beckstead, A. "Gay is not me:" Seeking Congruence Through Sexual Reorientation Therapy. (Unpublished master's thesis, Univesity of Utah, 1999).
  • Shildo, A. & Shcroeder, M., Changing Sexual Orientation: Does Counselling Work? Papar presented to the American Psychological Association, Boston MA, 1999.
  • American Psychological Association Appropriate therapeutic responses to sexual orientation. Proceedings for the legislative year 1997. American Psychologist, Vol. 53, 1998.
  • Policy statement, "Homosexuality and Adolescence," American Academy of Pediatrics, Pediatrics, 1993-OCT.

External Links

Medical & Scientific Organisations' Statements On Homosexuality

Reparative Therapist Ministries and Organisations

Opposition and Criticism

Neutral

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