The study reopens the debate over "reparative therapy," or treatment to change sexual preference. Spitzer argues that highly motivated gays can in fact change that preference — with a lot of effort.
But critics have challenged the study, even before it was formally unveiled at today's session of the American Psychiatric Association's annual meeting in New Orleans, which was jammed with television cameras reporting on the presentation. Another study presented today even contradicted the finding.
Ariel Shidlo and Michael Shroeder, two psychologists in private practice in New York City, found that of homosexual subjects who received therapy to change their sexual orientation, the majority failed to do so.
Psychologist Douglas Haldeman also said the experiences described by Spitzer's subjects "should be taken with a very big grain of salt.
What I am disputing is that is invariably the outcome. In fact, he said, many of his subjects had been despondent and even suicidal themselves, for the opposite reason — "precisely because they had previously thought there was no hope for them, and they had been told by many mental health professionals that there was no hope for them, they had to just learn to live with their homosexual feelings.
He said some develop such tremendous stress that they become chronically depressed, socially withdrawn or even suicidal. But Spitzer says his study shows that some homosexuals making some effort, usually for a few years, make the change. However, compared to other men, gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men are additionally affected by:.
Some of them are:. These reasons and others may prevent you from seeking testing, prevention and treatment services, and support from friends and family.
In fact, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men make up more than half of the people living with HIV in the United States and experience two thirds of all new HIV infections each year. The large percentage of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men who have HIV and STDs means that, as a group, they have a higher chance of being exposed to these diseases. Most gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men get HIV by having anal sex, which is the riskiest type of sex for getting or spreading HIV.
However, if you are HIV-negative, bottoming without a condom puts you at much greater risk for getting HIV than topping. Your sexual health is important. All sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested regularly for STDs. Queer people are still discriminated against at work, in their communities, and even in their families. Whatever you prefer. This could help you segue into the conversation. You could end the conversation by asking for their support and directing them to a resource guide, perhaps online, if they need it.
There are many resources out there for people who want to support their queer friends and family members. They may ignore what you said or laugh it off as a joke. They provide help and support for people who are in crisis or feeling suicidal, or for people who simply need someone to talk to and vent to. Consider joining in-person groups so you can meet people face-to-face. It can be a difficult and emotionally tough process. Ultimately, the only person who gets to label your identity is you.
And no matter what label you choose to use — if you use any label at all — it should be respected. Remember that there are plenty of resources, organizations, and individuals out there who are willing to support and help you.
All you need to do is find them and reach out. Her writing covers issues relating to social justice, cannabis, and health. You can reach out to her on Twitter. Condoms are one of the most effective ways to prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections. Graysexual is used to describe people who experience limited sexual attraction. I am gay but have never admitted this to anyone. I have gone through life pretending. My friends probably suspect I am gay, but we have never discussed it.
I always joke about never meeting the right girl, and how I love traveling so I could never settle down. I have secretly fallen in love with male friends over the years, but never told them, as they are heterosexual and usually in a relationship. Eventually I get over these crushes, and we remain good friends without my ever saying anything.
Now I am again infatuated, this time with my male boss. I love his intelligence, wit, and interest in life.
0コメント