Conversion therapy

Definition

Conversion therapy is a range of practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation from homosexual or bisexual to heterosexual. These practices are often rooted in certain religious ideologies that view non-heterosexual orientations as morally wrong, leading to significant psychological distress and negative outcomes for those subjected to them. The controversy surrounding conversion therapy highlights the complex interplay between religious beliefs, societal norms, and mental health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conversion therapy has been widely discredited by major medical and psychological organizations, including the American Psychological Association, which states that it poses significant risks to individuals.
2. Practices associated with conversion therapy can include counseling, aversion techniques, and even religious interventions, often leading to feelings of shame and internal conflict.
3. Many survivors of conversion therapy report long-lasting psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
4. Some jurisdictions have enacted laws banning conversion therapy for minors due to its harmful impact and lack of efficacy.
5. The movement against conversion therapy is growing, with advocates emphasizing the importance of acceptance and support for individuals regardless of their sexual orientation.

Review Questions

• How does conversion therapy relate to the psychological impact of religious sexual ethics on individuals?
  • Conversion therapy often stems from religious beliefs that categorize non-heterosexual orientations as sinful or morally unacceptable. This perspective can lead individuals to seek conversion therapy in hopes of reconciling their sexuality with their faith. The psychological impact is profound; many people experience guilt, shame, and anxiety when trying to conform to these religious sexual ethics, leading to serious mental health issues as they undergo conversion therapy.
• What evidence exists regarding the efficacy and consequences of conversion therapy in light of established psychological principles?
  • Numerous studies show that conversion therapy is ineffective in changing sexual orientation and can lead to severe psychological harm. The negative consequences are well-documented: individuals subjected to such practices often experience increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Major psychological associations have denounced these practices based on empirical evidence demonstrating that efforts to change sexual orientation are not only unsuccessful but also damaging.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of conversion therapy practices in relation to mental health care and individual rights.
  • The ethical implications surrounding conversion therapy are significant, particularly in how they conflict with established principles of mental health care. Providing treatment that is known to be harmful violates ethical standards focused on 'do no harm' and informed consent. Furthermore, conversion therapy undermines individual rights by attempting to suppress an essential aspect of a person's identity. As society increasingly recognizes the legitimacy of diverse sexual orientations, the push against these unethical practices raises important questions about freedom of expression and the responsibility of mental health professionals.

Related terms

sexual orientation: An inherent or immutable enduring emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to other people, which can be heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual.

queer theory: An academic field that challenges the traditional categories of gender and sexuality, advocating for the acceptance of diverse identities and orientations.

psychological harm: Emotional or mental injury that can result from harmful practices or ideologies, often leading to long-term negative effects on an individual's well-being.