The Dark History of Conversion Therapy: Understanding a Controversial Practice

Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, is a discredited and widely criticized practice that aims to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. The therapy's proponents claim that it can help people overcome their same-sex attractions or non-conforming gender expressions, aligning them with traditional societal norms. However, the overwhelming consensus among medical professionals and human rights organizations is that conversion therapy is not only ineffective but also deeply harmful.The practice of conversion therapy has its roots in the early 20th century, but it wasn't until the 1980s and 1990s that it gained significant traction. During this period, some therapists and religious organizations began promoting conversion therapy as a way to "cure" individuals of their same-sex attractions. This was largely driven by a growing conservative movement in the United States, which sought to roll back advances in LGBTQ+ rights.As the practice spread, it was often justified by claims that being gay or lesbian was a mental disorder or a choice, rather than an inherent aspect of a person's identity. Proponents of conversion therapy argued that with the right treatment, individuals could "overcome" their same-sex attractions and adopt a heterosexual orientation.However, as more research emerged on the effects of conversion therapy, medical groups began to sound the alarm. In the early 2000s, several major medical organizations, including the American Psychological Association (APA), started to investigate the practice. Their findings were conclusive: conversion therapy was not only ineffective in changing an individual's sexual orientation but also caused significant harm, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.In 2009, the APA issued a resolution opposing the use of conversion therapy for individuals under 18, citing the risk of harm and the lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness. Since then, many other medical organizations have followed suit, including the American Medical Association and the National Association of Social Workers.Despite the overwhelming evidence against it, conversion therapy continues to be practiced in some parts of the world. In the United States, several states have banned the practice for minors, but it remains permitted in many other countries. As the medical community continues to speak out against conversion therapy, there is growing recognition of the need to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from this harmful practice and to promote acceptance and understanding instead.