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发帖数: 4346 | 1 http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx
Is homosexuality a mental disorder?
No, lesbian, gay, and bisexual orientations are not disorders. Research has
found no inherent association between any of these sexual orientations and
psychopathology. Both heterosexual behavior and homosexual behavior are
normal aspects of human sexuality. Both have been documented in many
different cultures and historical eras. Despite the persistence of
stereotypes that portray lesbian, gay, and bisexual people as disturbed,
several decades of research and clinical experience have led all mainstream
medical and mental health organizations in this country to conclude that
these orientations represent normal forms of human experience. Lesbian, gay,
and bisexual relationships are normal forms of human bonding. Therefore,
these mainstream organizations long ago abandoned classifications of
homosexuality as a mental disorder.
What about therapy intended to change sexual orientation from gay to
straight?
All major national mental health organizations have officially expressed
concerns about therapies promoted to modify sexual orientation. To date,
there has been no scientifically adequate research to show that therapy
aimed at changing sexual orientation (sometimes called reparative or
conversion therapy) is safe or effective. Furthermore, it seems likely that
the promotion of change therapies reinforces stereotypes and contributes to
a negative climate for lesbian, gay, and bisexual persons. This appears to
be especially likely for lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals who grow up
in more conservative religious settings.
Helpful responses of a therapist treating an individual who is troubled
about her or his same-sex attractions include helping that person actively
cope with social prejudices against homosexuality, successfully resolve
issues associated with and resulting from internal conflicts, and actively
lead a happy and satisfying life. Mental health professional organizations
call on their members to respect a person’s (client’s) right to self-
determination; be sensitive to the client’s race, culture, ethnicity, age,
gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status,
language, and disability status when working with that client; and
eliminate biases based on these factors. |
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