Homosexuality

10 Pages 2597 Words

as a member of a stigmatized
group. Clinical experience indicates that those who have integrated their sexual orientation
into a positive sense of self-function at a healthier psychological level than those who have not. “Gay affirmative psychotherapy” may be helpful in the coming out process, fostering a positive psychological development and overcoming the effects of stigmatization. A position statement adopted by the Board in December 1998 said: The American Psychiatric Association opposes any psychiatric treatment, such as “reparative” or “conversion” therapy, which is based upon the assumption that homosexuality per se is a mental disorder, or based upon a prior assumption that the patient should change his/ her homosexual orientation.” (See full position statements, below)

What does it mean to be Gay/Lesbian?
It is the condition of being sexually attracted and drawn to members of one's own sex.

Who is Gay/Lesbian?
The only basis for deciding whether one is or is not Gay/Lesbian is a continuing erotic preference for partners of the same sex.

Does a Gay/Lesbian act make one a homosexual?
No. Many boys and girls during early childhood and adolescence have homosexual experiences without lasting effects. Also, under special circumstances, such as military service and prison life, homosexual behavior sometimes occurs on a temporary basis.

How many Gay/Lesbian are there?
No one really knows. However, several authorities have estimated that perhaps one out of every ten adults could be so classified. Therefore, the number would total many millions.

Can Gays/Lesbians be easily identified?
Contrary to popular belief, most Gay/Lesbian are indistinguishable in appearance from other people. They are found in all walks of life, at all social and economic levels and
among all cultural groups. Homosexual tastes and personalities vary as widely as do heterosexual. Some male homosexuals are feminine in manner a...