abandon gay 'change theory'
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| Sat, 08-08-2009 - 3:11am |
Abandon gay 'change therapy,' MDs told
American Psychological Association passes landmark resolution when it advises members not to tell gay clients they can change their sexual orientation through treatment
MARINA JIMÉNEZ
From Friday's Globe and Mail Last updated on Friday, Aug. 07, 2009 09:48AM EDT
The American Psychological Association passed a landmark resolution this week advising their members not to tell gay clients they can change their sexual orientation through treatment.
The declaration followed an extensive review of 83 studies conducted over 40 years. The research concluded there is no scientific evidence that "reparative therapy," or sexual-orientation-change efforts, are effective. The issue is controversial in the U.S., where some mental health professionals with links to conservative Christian churches maintain that "change therapy" works.
However, the APA says counsellors and psychologists should accept their patients' sexuality, and focus on helping them work out the conflict between their sexual feelings and their religious values.
"The research found that people couldn't change their underlying attractions. They may perceive them differently once they have reframed their identity, but the attractions don't change," said Judith Glassgold, a psychologist and chair of the APA's six-member task force.
With 150,000 members, the APA is the world's largest association of psychologists, and is affiliated with many other groups, including the Canadian Psychological Association. It issued a report on the subject at its annual general meeting, held this year in Toronto. The association's governing council unanimously endorsed the resolution, which also advises therapists not to portray homosexuality as an illness or developmental disorder.
The issue is certain to remain controversial, as others continue to espouse the view that sexual orientation can be changed. Jeff Johnson from Focus on the Family issued a press release yesterday saying there is evidence some people's behaviour, identity and attractions can change.
"We can't ignore that faith is an anchor and guide for many people struggling with sexual issues," said Mr. Johnston. "For some men and women, it is more important to live out lives according to their religious convictions than to adopt a gay identity."
However, Dr. Glassgold said it shouldn't be an "either-or" proposition. Instead, she advised therapists to find a way to help clients integrate both their religion and their sexuality. In some cases, that may mean patients learn to accept their gay or lesbian attractions, but choose not to act on them.
"Some people may choose celibacy, and keep their faith. Or they may find a new faith that is more accepting. Or they may choose a personal form of spirituality," she noted. "There are many possible outcomes."
The association plans to promote the new approach to sexuality with YouTube videos, speeches to schschools and churches, and presentations to Christian counsellors.
According to new APA guidelines, therapists should advise clients that gay men and women can lead happy and productive lives, and emphasize that there is no evidence that therapy can alter arousal patterns.
However, constructing an identity that transcends their sexual orientation is also an option, added Dr. Glassgold, noting the profession has to offer alternatives. Research shows that efforts to change a person's sexual orientation can be harmful, and lead to depression and suicidal tendencies. The task force struck by the APA accepted from the outset that homosexuality is part of human sexuality, but that it remains stigmatized.
Mental health professionals should be careful not to condemn homosexuality in adolescents or children, the report noted. Research studies show that gay teens who feel rejected by their parents are most prone to mental health problems. Parents should reassure their children of their love, and keep communication open.
According to a report in the Associated Press, Wayne Besen, a gay rights activist who has sought to discredit the so-called "ex-gay" movement, applauded the APA's report. "Ex-gay therapy is a profound travesty that has led to pointless tragedies," he said.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/abandon-gay-change-therapy-mds-told/article1244175/
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Good!
There is so much about the human psychic that the scientists don't know.
~I believe a Gay person has been born that way.~
I think so, too.
~I read a biography about Christine Jorgasson, she is a transvestite.
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martinisnsushi - the two most important food groups!
~I think it doesn't matter ... They're gay, so what~
Oh, hey, I'm gay and so what is exactly what comes to mind for me, too lol.