The Dangers and Ineffectiveness of Conversion Therapy: What Research Reveals

Conversion therapy, sometimes called "ex-gay therapy," claims it can change someone's sexual orientation or gender identity. Even though it's been debunked by every major medical and mental health organization, it still pops up in various parts across America. Let me walk you through why this practice should be put in our rearview mirror—for good.

Understanding conversion therapy?

Conversion therapy uses a mishmash set-up filled with pseudoscientific techniques that lean on harmful stereotypes about LGBTQ+ folks. You might hear about people being pushed not just emotionally but physically, like being told that their natural sexual feelings are wrong, making them exercise as a cure, or even worse, using religious pressure tactics. It can get extreme, with some "therapists" going so far as inflicting pain or humiliation, all in a bid supposedly aimed at "curing" something that isn't broken.

What doctors really think about it

Top medical groups have been loud and clear in speaking against conversion therapy. Organizations like The American Academy Of Child And Adolescent Psychiatry, The American Psychological Association, and The American Medical Association have repeatedly slammed these practices. They say not only do these approaches not work, but they also cause real harm. Remember a 2009 report from The American Psychological Association? It found zero credible evidence that you can just tweak someone's sexual orientation through therapy, spotlighting increased depression and even suicidality risks instead.

The legal scene in America

So far, 22 states have banned conversion therapy when it comes down minors. These bans stem from realizing that conversion therapy breaks state licensing rules due its harmful and misleading nature. Still, over 1,320 practitioners—yep, you read that right—keep operating, often hiding behind vague names and labels that mask what they're really doing.

Why conversion therapy hurts

Research consistently shows that those who've been through conversion therapy are much more likely suffer from things like depression and anxiety. A study done by The UCLA Williams Institute in 2020 found that individuals exposed were nearly twice as likely attempt suicide. The impact's even worse on kids, leading more reports about depression, substance abuse, and social withdrawal.

On top all that, studies like one from 2018 highlight how this "therapy" can mess up someone financially too. We're talking lower self-esteem and snapped-off support networks. The damage runs deep.

Who gets hit hardest?

Certain groups seem targeted more by these practices like trans people—who report higher rates than their cisgender counterparts—according a 2015 survey which found nearly one in seven trans adults faced attempts change their gender identity often leading negative impacts mental health.

Also, racial minorities, especially those from conservative religious backgrounds find themselves disproportionately caught crossfire. A 2023 PLOS One study showed higher rates among non-white individuals compared white people largely due societal attitudes systemic discrimination.

Why it's time fight back

Even with everything we know, conversion therapy refuses fade away quietly. Legal battles and political shifts keep threatening existing bans - just look at how The Supreme Court decided hear a case challenging state-level prohibitions! It means LGBTQ+ individuals allies need stay alert knowledgeable; standing up policies protecting vulnerable groups from harmful practices.

Conversion therapy doesn't just fail reach its supposed goals but leaves lasting scars those subjected it. The research speaks loudly—ending conversion therapy must happen ensure well-being dignity everyone within LGBTQ+ community while advocating comprehensive policies safeguarding mental health rights these individuals.