The term “conversion” implies a change or transformation, which can sometimes be natural and logical—like how our bodies convert food into energy. Other times, conversion is a deliberate choice, such as switching political affiliations or adopting a new faith. However, forced conversion is never effective.
Conversion therapy, often referred to as reparative therapy, occurs when licensed and unlicensed mental health professionals attempt to alter an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. This practice incorrectly assumes that our feelings about love and identity are mere choices. In reality, conversion therapy contradicts its own definition by enforcing an unnatural process that harms the individual rather than helping them. Those subjected to this practice are coerced to conform to others’ beliefs instead of embracing their own identities.
As of now, 16 states in the U.S., along with Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, have outlawed conversion therapy. States like Texas and Georgia are pursuing similar bans, but it is crucial that we make this practice illegal everywhere, especially for minors. Often, parents compel their children into harmful conversion therapy because they genuinely believe it is beneficial, influenced by their religious convictions. Others act out of fear and prejudice. Regardless, banning conversion therapy is essential to safeguard children from parental harm.
Conversion therapy encompasses a wide range of harmful practices—from talk therapy and “praying the gay away” to more extreme methods like electroshock therapy and visualization exercises designed to enforce heterosexual and gender-conforming behaviors. It aims to convince individuals who recognize a mismatch between their gender identity and biological sex that they must adhere to traditional gender norms dictated by their assigned sex at birth.
This practice is rooted in a predominantly religious belief that anything deviating from a heterosexual, cisgender, and binary framework is abnormal. LGBTQIA+ individuals are often dehumanized and regarded as projects rather than people with agency. We are labeled as failures, sinners, and encouraged to conform to the “right way” of living. In contrast, cisgender individuals are rarely questioned about their identities; they are simply accepted. Professionals who advocate conversion therapy mistakenly believe they can force us to change while failing to recognize their own inability to alter their inherent identities.
Time and again, research has demonstrated that conversion therapy is ineffective. Dr. Mitchell, a licensed counselor working with LGBTQ clients, points out that no scientific studies published in peer-reviewed journals support the efficacy of conversion therapy. Furthermore, there is a lack of longitudinal studies tracking the outcomes of those who have undergone such treatments.
What is consistently proven, however, is that conversion therapy, along with a lack of acceptance, leads to severe mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide. According to a study by the Family Acceptance Project, LGBTQ youth subjected to conversion therapy are twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers. Additionally, LGB youth from highly rejecting families have an 8.4 times greater chance of suicide attempts than those with accepting families. Alarmingly, 40% of transgender adults have attempted suicide, while strong support can reduce this risk by 82%.
The challenge lies not in our diverse identities along the LGBTQIA+ spectrum but in society’s failure to accept us for who we are. When I receive respect and affirmation for my identity, I feel empowered and deserving of existence. Despite societal stigmas labeling me as a deviant, I find solace in the love of those who see me for who I am.
When I came out as gay, some family members attempted to “pray the gay away,” believing I needed a good Christian man and divine intervention. In reality, I needed unconditional love—not someone else’s desires imposed on me.
Years later, as I questioned my gender identity, I realized that conversion therapy would not have provided the answers. Just as excessive alcohol consumption failed to help me accept my identity, conversion therapy would have only deepened my struggles. Instead, I found a supportive community that embraces my non-binary identity.
A Christian mother, Sarah, who once sought conversion therapy for her son, now recognizes the damaging nature of such practices and emphasizes the importance of love and acceptance. She advocates for making conversion therapy illegal and has established a nonprofit organization to assist other Christian parents in supporting their LGBTQ children positively.
Acceptance and unconditional love are the cornerstones of mental and physical well-being for any child. It is impossible to change someone’s sexuality or gender identity, but a queer person can suffer immense pain from societal rejection. Fear can lead to self-harm, sadness can manifest as addiction, and life can tragically spiral into despair. Yet, the essence of who we are remains unchangeable and beautiful.
For more insights into navigating the journey of parenthood and LGBTQ acceptance, check out this blog post on home insemination. If you’re exploring family-building options, this resource is highly recommended. Additionally, for couples on a fertility journey, Make A Mom offers great advice and resources.
In summary, conversion therapy is a harmful and ineffective practice that targets LGBTQIA+ individuals, often causing severe psychological damage. The key to healthy development lies in acceptance and love, not forced change.