Conversion therapy, a term often wrapped in euphemisms like “reparative therapy” or “ex-gay ministry,” is a dangerous and debunked practice built on the false premise that homosexuality, bisexuality, transgender identity, and other variations of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) are illnesses that need curing.
For those of us in the LGBTQ+ community, it’s a constant reminder that some still view our very existence as a problem to be fixed.
What is Conversion Therapy?
Conversion therapy subjects individuals to a range of physical and psychological interventions aimed at forcing them to conform to heteronormative and cisnormative expectations. These practices have included everything from electric shock and aversion conditioning to talk therapy focused on shaming and guilt. It’s important to remember, this therapy isn’t a legitimate medical practice; it’s a pseudoscience built on prejudice, not science.
The Harm of Conversion Therapy
The damage this therapy inflicts goes far beyond the immediate experience. Here’s a stark reality: conversion therapy doesn’t work. Major medical and mental health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychological Association, and the American Psychiatric Association, have roundly condemned the practice. There is simply no credible evidence to suggest it can change someone’s fundamental SOGI.
What it does is inflict significant emotional and psychological harm. Studies have linked conversion therapy to a higher risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. It reinforces shame and self-hatred, pushing individuals away from supportive communities and towards isolation. The very act of being told your identity is wrong is a form of violence, and the scars it leaves can be long-lasting.
Conversion Therapy in the US: A Patchwork of Protections
The good news? There’s a growing movement to ban conversion therapy in the United States. As of March 2024, 22 states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws prohibiting licensed healthcare professionals from subjecting minors to conversion therapy. These bans are a crucial step in protecting young LGBTQ+ people from the trauma of this harmful practice.
However, these bans often have loopholes. Many don’t extend protections to adults seeking help from therapists who promote conversion therapy disguised as counseling. Furthermore, religious organizations are often exempt, allowing this type of therapy to continue under the guise of faith-based interventions. This creates a dangerous situation where vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those raised in religious households, remain at risk.
Why We Should All Be Angry
The continued existence of conversion therapy is an infuriating injustice. It’s a blatant attack on the LGBTQ+ community, a denial of our fundamental right to exist authentically. It’s a betrayal of the trust placed in healthcare professionals and religious leaders.
But anger can be a powerful motivator. It can fuel our fight for full legal protection from conversion therapy nationwide. It can energize us to demand that therapists uphold ethical practices and religious leaders embrace inclusivity. Most importantly, it can empower us to speak out against the shame this torturous therapy perpetuates, reminding ourselves and others that our identities are beautiful, valid, and deserving of respect.
Moving Forward
The fight against conversion therapy isn’t over. Here are some things we, as a community, can do:
- Support Organizations: Donate to organizations working to end conversion therapy, such as The Trevor Project, GLAAD, and the National Center for Lesbian Rights.
- Share Your Story: If you’re comfortable, share your experiences with this form of “therapy.” Your voice can help raise awareness and inspire others to speak out.
- Educate Your Network: Talk openly with friends, family, and colleagues about the dangers of reparative therapy.
- Advocate for Change: Contact your state representatives and urge them to support legislation banning conversion therapy for all ages.
The Bottom Line
Conversion therapy thrives in silence. By speaking out, demanding justice, and celebrating our identities, we can ensure a future where LGBTQ+ youth are safe to be themselves, free from trauma.
