The psychological repercussions of conversion therapy can be devastating for individuals who have undergone this practice. Conversion therapy attempts to change an individual's sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual through various techniques such as counseling, behavioral modification, and religious teachings. While some people may find success in changing their sexual identity, many others experience severe mental health issues that persist long after the intervention has ended. These psychological effects can manifest themselves in different ways depending on the personality of the individual and the severity of the trauma they experienced during the process. Some common symptoms include anxiety, depression, self-loathing, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and isolation.
Individuals who undergo conversion therapy often feel immense pressure to conform to society's expectations of what it means to be straight and male/female. This pressure can lead them down a path of self-hatred where they begin to question their own existence and worthiness. They may feel like there is something wrong with them because they are attracted to the same sex or have feelings that do not fit into traditional gender roles. The fear of being ostracized by friends and family members due to their sexual orientation can also contribute to these feelings. In addition, those who attempt to change their sexual identity may struggle with the physical intimacy required in a heterosexual relationship, leading to further emotional distress.
One study found that 69% of LGBTQ+ individuals who had undergone conversion therapy reported feeling depressed and anxious for years following the practice. Many felt alone and isolated, unable to seek help because they were taught to believe that their homosexuality was a sinful act against God. Others reported experiencing suicidal thoughts and attempting to harm themselves as a result of the trauma they endured.
Many people who underwent this treatment reported difficulty forming romantic relationships afterward. They struggled with trust issues and felt unworthy of love because of the pain inflicted upon them during the process.
The effects of conversion therapy can last long beyond its conclusion. Individuals may continue to experience guilt, shame, and low self-esteem even if they successfully changed their sexual identity. They may find it difficult to trust others due to the betrayal they experienced at the hands of their parents, religious leaders, or therapists. This distrust can lead to difficulties forming meaningful connections with others and struggling with intimate relationships. These individuals often feel like outcasts within both gay and straight communities, leading to additional isolation and loneliness.
It is essential to recognize that conversion therapy does not work and only causes severe mental health problems for those subjected to it. Parents should never allow their children to go through this process and instead support them regardless of their sexual orientation. The emotional repercussions of this intervention are far too damaging to ignore. Mental health professionals must also refuse to participate in such practices since they have been proven ineffective and destructive. By speaking up about the dangers of conversion therapy, we can help prevent future generations from suffering similar psychological damage.
How do psychological repercussions of conversion therapy manifest in the identities and emotional lives of those subjected to it, even years after the intervention?
Conversion therapy is an umbrella term that refers to various methods used by religious leaders, parents, counselors, and therapists with the aim of changing someone's sexual orientation or gender identity from homosexual or transgender to heterosexual or cisgender. The methods may include talk therapy, spiritual guidance, hypnosis, shock treatment, electric stimulation, and even drugs.