New Evidence in Reparative Therapy

The APA (American Psychological Association) has stated that "Gay Therapy" does not work. Although many people have known this for a while, I am glad that the APA is finally recognizing this fact. Too many people are negatively affected by believing that being gay or lesbian is something that can be changed. From family members, to policies, to people who are in the closet and coming to terms with their sexuality - everyone and everything is hurt when you believe that it's a choice. So that have the APA finally recognize it is important. In the past gay therapy has been criticized by the APA, but it is now rejected.

I also happen to like how they do offer alternatives to those whose religious and sexual orientation clash: celibacy, changing churches etc. I do think it is important to respond to the fact that like they said, "Secular therapists have to recognize that some people will chose faith over their sexuality." The APA can do very little in changing the policies of the churches, but in the mean time they can offer alternatives to the religious who are gay.

I can also see where some people might be offended by the fact that they offering alternatives, rather than helping their patient overcome their belief that homosexuality is a sin. Two things must be touched upon those people who would pose an argument, like the article states, "the religious psychotherapists have to open up their eyes to the potential positive of being gay or lesbian." Sometimes there has to be a change made in the religious community if you are going to change the minds of the religious who happen to be gay. It might be the only way. The APA is being proactive. I think it also does people good to remember that these religious gays might be going to therapists/priests/pastors that may be from their religion, or who in the past have advocated that a change can happen. So by rejecting the claim that reparative therapy does help, they are helping these very people who would have otherwise gone to them and suffered tremendous physical and emotional pain.

Overall, I'm really glad that the APA finally opened their eyes and stated that reparative therapy, or gay therapy, does not work. I wonder what type of legal issues will arise because of this, that will lead to bigger change?