Abstract
The self-reports of individuals who claim that they have changed their sexual orientation are either dismissed as false or
relied upon to promote sexual orientation change efforts. However, these reactions do not capture the complexity of the sexual
reorientation phenomenon. This article provides an overview regarding the promise and effort of sexual reorientation and how
this knowledge may inform our current understanding of human sexuality. Specifically, a brief history is given of the interventions
used to change attractions to same-sex adults and the assumptions underlying these efforts. Information will be given regarding
which conclusions can be derived from sexual reorientation studies. The limitations of these studies will be explained to
strengthen future research. Hypotheses will be presented regarding the motivations and needs of those distressed by a same-sex
erotic orientation and the impact that the hope of sexual reorientation may have for family members, religious leaders, and
policy makers. A multivariate model of sexuality and sexual orientation, including scales of attraction and aversion, will
be proposed based upon current understanding of sexuality and the distinctions found in sexual reorientation research. In
the end, a therapeutic framework will be highlighted that may be used (and researched) to help those distressed by their sexual
orientation.
relied upon to promote sexual orientation change efforts. However, these reactions do not capture the complexity of the sexual
reorientation phenomenon. This article provides an overview regarding the promise and effort of sexual reorientation and how
this knowledge may inform our current understanding of human sexuality. Specifically, a brief history is given of the interventions
used to change attractions to same-sex adults and the assumptions underlying these efforts. Information will be given regarding
which conclusions can be derived from sexual reorientation studies. The limitations of these studies will be explained to
strengthen future research. Hypotheses will be presented regarding the motivations and needs of those distressed by a same-sex
erotic orientation and the impact that the hope of sexual reorientation may have for family members, religious leaders, and
policy makers. A multivariate model of sexuality and sexual orientation, including scales of attraction and aversion, will
be proposed based upon current understanding of sexuality and the distinctions found in sexual reorientation research. In
the end, a therapeutic framework will be highlighted that may be used (and researched) to help those distressed by their sexual
orientation.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-14
- DOI 10.1007/s10508-012-9922-x
- Authors
- A. Lee Beckstead, 1433 South 1100 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, USA
- Journal Archives of Sexual Behavior
- Online ISSN 1573-2800
- Print ISSN 0004-0002