I know some of you will read this and go "well, duh," but yesterday's declaration by the American Psychiatric Association effectively debunking repairative (ex-gay) therapy is very important. From Yahoo News:
The American Psychological Association declared Wednesday that mental health professionals should not tell gay clients they can become straight through therapy or other treatments.
Instead, the APA urged therapists to consider multiple options — that could range from celibacy to switching churches — for helping clients whose sexual orientation and religious faith conflict.
In a resolution adopted on a 125-to-4 vote by the APA's governing council, and in a comprehensive report based on two years of research, the 150,000-member association put itself firmly on record in opposition of so-called "reparative therapy" which seeks to change sexual orientation.
No solid evidence exists that such change is likely, says the report, and some research suggests that efforts to produce change could be harmful, inducing depression and suicidal tendencies.
Wayne Besen, a gay-rights activist who has sought to discredit the so-called "ex-gay" movement, welcomed the APA findings.
"Ex-gay therapy is a profound travesty that has led to pointless tragedies, and we are pleased that the APA has addressed this psychological scourge," Besen said.
I couldn't agree more. Click here to read the rest of the story, including a rebuttal from Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International.
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how important it is to let people know that they are fine, wonderful and right, just the way they are. ex-gay therapy is harmful, causes pain, depression and family troubles. gays have been modern day torture victims, made to endure therapy that has no reparative value. i am so happy this has finally been evaluated and set for the record.
ReplyDeletejimmy palmieri
founder of the tweakers project
www.tweakersproject.org
I have a friend who was a leader/co-founder of such ministries. He is now an openly gay Christian. As a therapist, this was an area of conflict. Now, he really emphasized expressing and be who God made you to be. (I am a straight female...I put you on my blog side bar as a link...I just started it so your's is the only one. Checking out others.
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