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The Fight Against Conversion Therapy: Understanding the Controversy
Published March 31, 2026 · TrendNet Editorial
Key Facts:
- Conversion therapy is a discredited practice that aims to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Major medical organizations, including the American Psychological Association, have condemned the practice.
- Studies have shown that conversion therapy can lead to increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
- Many countries, including Germany, Malta, and Ecuador, have banned conversion therapy.
A Brief History of Conversion Therapy
Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, has its roots in the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, homosexuality was viewed as a mental disorder, and therapists attempted to 'cure' individuals of their same-sex attractions. The practice gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, with some therapists using techniques such as electroshock therapy and aversion therapy to try to change an individual's sexual orientation.
However, as the medical community began to understand the harm caused by conversion therapy, major organizations, including the American Psychological Association (APA), began to speak out against the practice. In 2009, the APA issued a statement condemning conversion therapy, citing the lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness and the potential harm it could cause.
The Risks of Conversion Therapy
Studies have consistently shown that conversion therapy can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Homosexuality found that individuals who underwent conversion therapy were more likely to experience mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, than those who did not.
In addition to the mental health risks, conversion therapy can also lead to physical harm. Some therapists have used techniques such as electroshock therapy, which can cause physical pain and discomfort. Other therapists have used aversion therapy, which involves exposing individuals to unpleasant stimuli in an attempt to associate same-sex attractions with negative experiences.
The Growing Movement to Ban Conversion Therapy
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to ban conversion therapy worldwide. Many countries, including Germany, Malta, and Ecuador, have already banned the practice, and several US states, including California, New York, and New Jersey, have also implemented bans.
The movement to ban conversion therapy has been led by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who argue that the practice is not only ineffective but also causes harm to individuals. The Human Rights Campaign, a prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy group, has launched a campaign to ban conversion therapy in the US, citing the harm it causes to LGBTQ+ youth.
What to Watch Next
As the movement to ban conversion therapy continues to grow, it's likely that we'll see more countries and states implementing bans in the coming years. In the US, several states are currently considering legislation to ban conversion therapy, and it's likely that we'll see a federal ban in the near future.
In addition to the movement to ban conversion therapy, it's also important to watch the growing trend of LGBTQ+ individuals speaking out about their experiences with conversion therapy. Several high-profile individuals, including actress and activist Ellen Page, have spoken out about their experiences with conversion therapy, highlighting the harm it can cause.
Check out resources for LGBTQ+ individuals.