Researchers call for an end to conversion therapy

Physicians and historians writing in a new perspective article are calling for an end to conversion therapy, the controversial practice of trying to change the orientation of gay and gender-nonconforming individuals. The practice is currently banned in 18 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C., but the authors say that there is still room for improvement. Those who have undergone conversion therapy have reported higher rates of attempted suicide and depression, the authors write, and several medical organizations have stated their opposition. Beyond states ending the practice, the researchers say that more needs to be done to educate people on supporting and accepting gender-nonconforming and gay individuals. Clinicians should also be aware of the ethical and medical risks of the practice, the authors write.