Conversion therapy

Definition

Conversion therapy is a range of practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation from homosexual or bisexual to heterosexual. This controversial practice has been widely discredited by major medical organizations and is often linked to significant psychological harm, emphasizing the stigma and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conversion therapy has been shown to lead to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among those who undergo it.
2. Many countries and states have enacted laws banning conversion therapy practices, recognizing its harmful effects.
3. The American Psychological Association and other major health organizations strongly oppose conversion therapy and advocate for affirming approaches to support LGBTQ+ individuals.
4. Historically, conversion therapy has been linked to a broader culture of discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
5. The practice is often conducted in religious or pseudo-scientific settings, exploiting individuals' fears about their sexual orientation.

Review Questions

• How does conversion therapy contribute to the stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society?
  • Conversion therapy perpetuates stigma by suggesting that being LGBTQ+ is a disorder that needs to be changed. This reinforces negative beliefs about sexual orientation, leading to societal rejection and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people. As a result, individuals may internalize this stigma, which can impact their mental health and self-acceptance.
• Discuss the legal challenges surrounding conversion therapy and how they reflect broader societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Legal challenges to conversion therapy often focus on its harmful effects and the violation of individual rights. Many jurisdictions are moving towards banning these practices, which reflects a growing recognition of LGBTQ+ rights as civil rights. This shift demonstrates changing societal attitudes that increasingly affirm the validity of diverse sexual orientations and reject harmful interventions like conversion therapy.
• Evaluate the impact of conversion therapy on mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals and the implications for advocacy in promoting supportive practices.
  • The impact of conversion therapy on mental health is profound, with many survivors reporting lasting psychological damage. Advocacy efforts are increasingly focused on promoting affirmative practices that support LGBTQ+ identities rather than attempting to change them. This shift not only aims to protect vulnerable individuals from harm but also seeks to educate society about the importance of acceptance and support for mental well-being among LGBTQ+ populations.

Related terms

LGBTQ+: An acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and other sexual orientations and gender identities.

Stigma: A negative social attitude or belief that devalues individuals based on certain characteristics, such as sexual orientation or gender identity.

Discrimination: Unjust treatment of individuals based on their membership in a particular group, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.