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from Clinical/Therapeutic Issues
Reorientation-Therapy Psychologists
Host APA Panel
September 18, 2004 -
Drs. Warren Throckmorton and Mark Yarhouse led an American Psychological
Association panel to discuss sexual-orientation theories and the possibility of
change. The panel, held in late July, was part of the APA's annual conference,
which took place this year in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Dr. Throckmorton and Dr. Yarhouse presented evidence from their research that
indicated that individuals could overcome same-sex attractions--especially those
clients with a religious background.
According to Dr. Throckmorton, "Mark and I presented the side that argued that a
same-sex attraction does not obligate a person to declare a gay identity. We
argued that sexual identity management was a very viable option for young people
whose beliefs and values do not endorse homosexuality."
Throckmorton and Yarhouse view success in changing a person's sexual orientation
not as something quickly achieved, but as a process over time.
During the Q&A session, both psychologists were treated cordially and with
respect. "It was the kind of response that I think a professional association
ought to be known for," said Throckmorton. He noted that when he spoke four
years ago at an APA conference in Washington, DC, the audience was decidedly
hostile to his message. This year was different. He expressed appreciation to
the APA for allowing such a panel to be conducted.
Throckmorton was also encouraged that a number of psychology graduate students
were in the audience, and he expressed gratitude that they had been exposed to
his views. "These graduate students were exposed to a perspective they had never
heard before," said Throckmorton.
Dr. Brent Scharman, past president of the Utah Psychological Association, told
Throckmorton that this was the best presentation he had heard in 20 years.
Updated: 8 February 2008
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