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Thursday, August 6, 2009

It's About Time!

Reparative therapy, in use since the late 20th century, is a form of “therapy” aimed at changing homosexuals into heterosexuals. Research has shown that such therapy is not only ineffective, but can be harmful as well. Although the American Psychological Association (APA) removed homosexuality from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illnesses (DSM-I) in 1973, it has still encouraged mental health professionals to refer troubled homosexuals to reparative therapy.

On August 5th, 2009, the APA adapted a new resolution officially rejecting the effectiveness of reparative therapy. This resolution declares that “Contrary to claims of sexual orientation change advocates and practitioners, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of psychological interventions to change sexual orientation” (Judith M. Glassgold, PsyD). Instead, therapists are encouraged to work with clients in more creative ways to address concerns about homosexuality and religious conflict. This is a small, but important step toward ending discrimination toward homosexuals and increasing acceptance of homosexuality. And it’s about time it happened!

See the articles below for the full story:

New York Times

American Psychological Association


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