scholarly journals Sexual Orientation Change Efforts and VBP

2020 ◽  
pp. 331-339
Author(s):  
Taryn Knox
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Orientation ◽  
Mutual Respect ◽  
Conversion Therapy ◽  
Dominant Ideology ◽  
Orientation Change ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Change Efforts

AbstractAccording to VBP, to determine whether an individual ought to be able to choose to have safe, effective and truly consensual sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE—also known as conversion therapy), the legitimate values—values compatible with mutual respect—of the individual involved and other affected parties need to be considered. Fulford suggests that homophobic values are incompatible with mutual respect, which suggests that SOCE should not be available. This chapter argues that certain homophobic values may be compatible with mutual respect. Hence, in certain circumstances, VBP could allow safe, effective and truly consensual SOCE to go ahead. This could be considered to be a weakness of VBP. However, VBP should be applauded for considering the values of all involved, including those who make choices for themselves that do not align with the dominant ideology of a society.

A Voice in the Room: The Function of State Legislative Bans on Sexual Orientation Change Efforts for Minors

2014 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 113-140 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arcangelo S. Cella
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Sexual Orientation ◽  
Behavioral Therapy ◽  
Mental Condition ◽  
Mental Health Providers ◽  
Health Providers ◽  
Orientation Change ◽  
Mental Health Profession ◽  
History Of ◽  
Change Efforts

Throughout the history of the mental health profession, many psychotherapists have asserted that homosexuality is a mental condition or defect that may be corrected through treatment. Homosexuality was not officially declassified as a mental illness until 1973, and it was not until recently that mainstream mental health organizations renounced the claim that therapy can alter sexual orientation. Sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) involve various types of psychotherapy, from the familiar and seemingly benign talk therapy to forms of behavioral therapy that include “masturbatory reconditioning, rest, visits to prostitutes[,] excessive bicycle riding,” and even physical abuse. SOCE are now widely regarded by mainstream mental health practitioners as unscientific, ineffective, and mentally and emotionally harmful. Nevertheless, due to persistent societal disapproval of homosexuality, some mental health providers continue to engage in SOCE, often causing their patients to experience shame and anxiety well into adulthood.

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