Homosexuality and Psychology

Is homosexuality a mental illness or disorder?  This article discusses research in homosexuality and psychology.

Homosexuality, it is often asserted, is a psychological disorder similar to bipolar, obsessive/compulsive behavior, kleptomania or alcoholism.  Yet two major mental health associations have reached a different conclusion.  According to the American Psychiatric Association, "homosexuality per se implies no impairment in judgment, stability, reliability, or general social or vocational capabilities."  

The American Psychological Association states that "[homosexuality] is simply the way a minority of our population expresses love and sexuality."  In fact, it is not homosexuality per se but the stigma placed on this sexual orientation by society that is the cause of much emotional distress, according to the APA.  

Others claim that even if homosexuality is not officially classified as a mental illness, it nevertheless causes harm to oneself or others similar to other disorders.  But while it may be true that an over-consumption of alcohol can be demonstrated to inhibit the formation of emotional bonds, it is difficult to see how a similar impairment is caused solely by the fact that the physical anatomies of those involved happen to be similar.  

People often assert that most people who molest children are homosexual.  According to numerous studies, however, the most likely person to molest a child is actually a heterosexual male who is either a family member or friend of the family.  In fact, the majority of the victims of such sex offenders are girls.  Even pedophiles who do molest children of the same sex are almost always heterosexual in their adult relationships.

By Truthseeker

Notes

1.  over eight studies: formerly at http://hcqsa.virtualave.net/index.html#children

2.  numerous studies: formerly at http://hcqsa.virtualave.net/index.html#children

3.  heterosexual: formerly at http://hcqsa.virtualave.net/index.html#children

Resources

• Is Homosexuality a Psychological Disorder?:  Discussion of homosexuality and psychology.

• Answers to Questions About Sexual Orientation: Answers questions about homosexuality and psychology by the American Psychological Association.   

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