Research on the Impacts of Reparative Therapy and Harms Caused by Societal Prejudice
Conversion therapy, also known as “reparative therapy,” is a harmful and pseudoscientific practice that aims to change an individual’s sexual orientation, including asexuality. The field of psychology has evolved significantly over the years, shedding light on the diverse spectrum of human sexuality. While efforts have been made to destigmatize various sexual orientations, the history of pathologizing and attempting to change non-normative orientations continues to leave a lasting impact. One such phenomenon is asexual ‘conversion’ therapy, which seeks to change an individual’s asexual orientation through psychological or medical interventions. In this article, we explore the research on the impacts of asexual conversion therapy and the potential harms it can inflict.
What does conversion therapy look like?
Asexual conversion therapy is an attempt to change an individual’s asexual orientation by employing various techniques, including psychological interventions and religious guidance. It operates under the flawed assumption that asexuality is a ‘problem’ that needs fixing, a notion that is rooted in the broader societal misconception that sexual attraction is the sole foundation of human relationships and identities. This form of conversion therapy seeks to invalidate a person’s authentic self, forcing them to conform to normative sexual expectations.
However, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of conversion therapy is widely discredited by major medical and psychological organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychological Association (APA).
Historical Context
Historically, asexuality was pathologized under different labels in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). From “inhibited sexual desire disorder” to “hypoactive sexual desire disorder,” these terms were used to classify asexuality as a sexual dysfunction, alongside conditions like erectile dysfunction and vaginismus. However, a key distinction must be made: these labels apply only when the lack of sexual interest or fantasies causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulties. Significantly, the term “asexual” itself is absent from these discussions, perpetuating the misunderstanding of asexuality.
Conversion therapy by the numbers
Accurate statistics on the prevalence of asexual conversion therapy remain scarce due to the lack of comprehensive research. Nonetheless, anecdotal evidence suggests that these harmful practices persist, often due to the general misunderstanding and dismissal of asexuality. Many individuals within the asexual community face pressure from families, religious communities, and even mental health professionals to change their orientation.
Legal Protections and Future Progress
Although the DSM-V includes disclaimers that exclude asexual individuals from being diagnosed with sexual dysfunction if they identify as asexual, there is still much work to be done. Legal protections against ‘conversion therapy’ are often lacking in many Asian countries, leaving individuals vulnerable to harmful practices. Moving forward, efforts should focus on raising awareness about asexuality, advocating for legal protections, and fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding.
Mental Health Effects of Asexual Conversion Therapy
Asexual conversion therapy can have devastating mental health effects on individuals subjected to it. These effects are similar to those experienced by victims of other forms of conversion therapy:
- Depression and Anxiety: Asexual individuals subjected to conversion therapy often experience increased levels of depression and anxiety due to the pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations.
- Self-Esteem and Identity Issues: Being told that their asexuality is wrong or needs fixing can lead to a profound erosion of self-esteem and identity struggles.
- Isolation and Alienation: Asexual conversion therapy can isolate individuals from supportive social circles, exacerbating feelings of isolation and leading to emotional distress.
- Internalized Shame: Internalizing the notion that one’s asexuality is a problem can result in profound feelings of shame and guilt, damaging overall mental well-being.
Guidelines for Practice and Addressing Asexual Conversion Therapy
In the absence of specific guidelines for working with asexual-identified clients, mental health professionals should adhere to existing multicultural and ethical guidelines. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) Guidelines for Multicultural Practice emphasize recognizing and addressing personal biases, understanding power dynamics, and challenging institutional barriers.
Clinicians should adopt a humanistic and feminist approach to therapy. The humanistic model emphasizes empathy, client-centered therapy, and self-empowerment. Therapists should create a safe space for asexual clients to explore their identities without judgment.
The feminist model of psychotherapy places importance on the context of clients’ lives and their intersecting social identities. By empowering clients and advocating for social change, therapists can combat the stigma and discrimination that contribute to asexual conversion therapy.
Key Statistics about Suicide and LGBTQ+ People: A Dire Connection
Research has consistently shown a distressing correlation between conversion therapy and mental health outcomes, including a heightened risk of suicide. LGBTQ+ individuals who are subjected to conversion therapy are significantly more likely to experience depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. According to a study by the Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ youth who have undergone conversion therapy are more than twice as likely to attempt suicide as those who have not.
Advocating for Change: Promoting Acceptance and Banning Conversion Therapy
Recognizing the deeply harmful effects of conversion therapy, numerous countries around the world have taken steps to ban or restrict its practice. However, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health advocacy is far from over. To combat asexual ‘conversion’ therapy in Asia and beyond, it is crucial to:
- Raise Awareness: Educate the public about the dangers of conversion therapy and its impact on individuals’ mental health.
- Support LGBTQ+ Youth: Provide safe spaces, resources, and counseling for LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth, who are vulnerable to the harmful effects of conversion therapy.
- Advocate for Legal Measures: Push for legal bans on conversion therapy, backed by appropriate penalties for those who perpetrate it.
- Promote Inclusivity: Foster a culture of acceptance, respect, and understanding for diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
Conclusion
Asexual ‘conversion’ therapy in Asia is a distressing practice that highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. The harmful effects of conversion therapy on individuals who identify as asexual are deeply troubling, and efforts must be made to raise awareness about these harmful practices, challenge societal prejudices, and advocate for policies that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from such dangerous and unethical treatments.
It is essential for governments, medical professionals, and communities to work together to eradicate conversion therapy and promote a more inclusive, understanding, and accepting environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. As societies evolve, embracing diversity and providing support for LGBTQ+ individuals can help ensure a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
About The Author
The Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists (ANOAQA) is an online platform dedicated to amplifying Aro-Ace queer narratives, highlighting diverse queer artistic expressions, and publishing insightful articles aimed at fostering A-Spec awareness and sensibility among Asian youth. It seeks to be a comprehensive resource on issues affecting asexual and aromantic queer communities across Asia, including addressing hate crimes and discrimination.
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