What is "conversion therapy"?
Conversion therapy is any attempt to change one's sexual orientation or gender identity. It usually involves trying to reduce same-sex attraction through various methods such as counseling, medication, and spiritual intervention. There are also religious groups that believe homosexuality can be cured by prayer and fasting. Conversion therapy has been widely criticized for its harmful effects on mental health and human rights. It has been banned in many countries worldwide due to its negative impact on individuals who undergo it.
Psychological consequences
Coercive conversion therapies have a devastating effect on an individual's psychology. They cause trauma, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, self-loathing, fear, and isolation. Many LGBTQ individuals suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after being subjected to these treatments. Some even attempt suicide due to feelings of hopelessness and despair. These therapies often involve emotional abuse, manipulation, and brainwashing techniques. The goal is to break down an individual's sense of self-worth and self-confidence, making them more susceptible to changing their sexual orientation or gender identity. The psychological scars caused by this treatment can last a lifetime and may require years of therapy to overcome.
Social consequences
Coercive conversion therapies can also lead to social exclusion and discrimination. Individuals who undergo this treatment may be shunned by family members, friends, and communities because they now identify with a different gender or sexual orientation than before. This can lead to isolation, loneliness, and further depression. In some cases, individuals are forced out of their homes or cut off financially if they refuse to conform to the desired change. Others experience discrimination at work, school, or other social settings. Conversion therapies also reinforce negative stereotypes about LGBTQ people, further perpetuating homophobia and transphobia in society.
Familial consequences
Coercive conversion therapies can have a long-lasting impact on families. Parents who force their children into these therapies risk damaging their relationship permanently. Children may feel betrayed, abandoned, or ashamed of their parents for forcing them to change against their will. Some families even disown their LGBTQ children after discovering they went through conversion therapy. This can cause lifelong emotional trauma, leading to difficulties with trust and intimacy in future relationships.
Coercive conversion therapies have devastating effects on an individual's psychology, social life, and familial ties. They should never be tolerated as they violate fundamental human rights and cause immense harm. It is important that governments continue to ban such practices and provide support services for those affected. Society needs to recognize the dangers of conversion therapy and promote acceptance and inclusion for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
What are the long-term psychological, social, and familial consequences of coercive conversion therapies for LGBTQ individuals?
Coercive conversion therapies can have long-lasting negative impact on LGBTQ individuals' mental health, social relationships, and family dynamics. Psychologically, such treatments can cause trauma, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Socially, they may lead to isolation, stigma, and discrimination, making it difficult for people to form meaningful connections with others.