A Systematic Review of the Research Base on Sexual Reorientation Therapies

Abstract

In the past few years, members of the AAMFT, like members of other professional groups, have engaged in a discourse as to the necessity and effectiveness of sexual reorientation therapies. The purpose of this article is to review, critique, and synthesize the scientific rigor of the literature base underpinning sexual reorientation therapy research. Using a systematic narrative analysis approach, 28 empirically based, peer-reviewed articles meeting eligibility criteria were coded for sample characteristics and demographics as well as numerous methodology descriptors. Results indicate the literature base is full of omissions which threaten the validity of interpreting available data.

Establishing the Validity of the Affirmative Training Inventory: Assessing the Relationship between Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Affirmative Training and Students’ Clinical Competence

“…Another important statement programs need to consider adopting in order to foster a LGB affirmative environment is a statement of opposition to the practice of conversion therapy. The rationale behind this recommendation is based on the existing research that documents the many harmful effects of conversion therapies on LGB clients (Serovich et al., 2008). Additionally, conversion therapy is based on the belief that LGB sexual orientations are inherently pathological, which is inconsistent with official policies of all major mental health organizations, including the AAMFT (2009).…”

Alaskan Gay Males’ Couple Experiences of Societal Non-Support: Coping Through Families of Choice and Therapeutic Means

“…Likewise, most of the major mental health organizations have determined that these forms of therapy are oppressive, a form of prejudicial practice, harmful towards gays, and as such should not be practiced (Greene 1994;Long and Serovich 2003;Tunnell and Greenan 2004). Furthermore, previous research has demonstrated that therapeutic practices with gays that involve the therapist being in a position of non-support of gay persons and their rights is potentially harmful (Serovich et al 2008) and may be unethical (Green et al 2009;Long 2002;Twist et al 2006).…”

The Palgrave Handbook of the Psychology of Sexuality and Gender

“…Some Christian voices (Core Issues Trust, 2014;Doyle, 2014) continue to speak in favour of the reduction in homosexual feelings through therapy (an exception is Exodus: Bailey, 2013), despite the opposition of major therapy professional bodies (Consensus Statement, 2014; see also Haldeman, 1994;Serovich et al, 2008).…”