The trauma of forced conversion therapies is not just a result of the physical, mental, and emotional abuse inflicted on those who undergo them; it also exposes deeper societal mechanisms of control over sexual and gender diversity. In this essay, I will examine how the social structures that perpetuate the practice of conversion therapy reflect broader power dynamics between dominant groups and marginalized communities.
Let's define "forced" conversion therapy. This term describes any coercive efforts to change an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression against their will, often through psychological manipulation, behavioral modification, or religious indoctrination. Forced conversion therapy has been linked to high rates of suicide and self-harm among LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as long-term psychological damage that can last for years after the experience. Despite widespread condemnation from medical and mental health professionals, some countries still allow it to be practiced legally.
There are other ways in which these practices reinforce heteronormative standards of gender and sexuality outside of direct coercion. By presenting themselves as legitimate forms of treatment for LGBTQ+ people, they send the message that queerness itself is pathological, sinful, or even criminal. They also imply that heterosexuality and cisgenderism are the norm, and deviation from this norm requires intervention. This reinforces existing power imbalances whereby straight, cisgendered people hold more social privilege than anyone else.
Forced conversion therapies rely on a binary understanding of sex and gender, assuming that one must fit neatly into either/or categories like male/female or gay/straight. These rigid definitions ignore the complexities of human sexuality and gender and erase the experiences of non-binary and transgender people who may not identify with traditional labels. Forcing someone to choose between two options can feel isolating and invalidating, particularly if neither option accurately describes them.
Forced conversion therapies reflect broader cultural attitudes towards sexual and gender diversity. They suggest that certain behaviors and identities are inherently wrong, immoral, or shameful. This attitude has been used throughout history to marginalize and oppress those who defy societal expectations, such as women, people of color, and religious minorities. It allows dominant groups to maintain their power by policing the boundaries of "acceptable" behavior and enforcing conformity.
Forced conversion therapies expose deep-seated mechanisms of control over sexual and gender diversity. By perpetuating harmful stereotypes about LGBTQ+ people, they serve to uphold traditional systems of power and oppression. Ending these practices is crucial for creating a more equitable society where all individuals can live authentic lives free from coercion and stigma.
How does the trauma of forced conversion therapies illuminate societal mechanisms of control over sexual and gender diversity?
Traumatic experiences caused by compulsory treatment can help us better understand the power dynamics between different groups in society and how these affect minorities' identities and mental wellbeing. Forced conversion therapy is an extreme example of such abuse that demonstrates the extent to which individuals may be pressured into conforming with preconceived notions of normalcy and desirability, often at great personal cost.