Conversion therapy was used as an attempt to change a person's sexuality or orientation.
Other uses of the term conversion in therapy:
(1) change from intravenous to oral route
(2) preoperative chemotherapy to make resection of a tumor feasible
Premise: homosexuality or sexual dysphoria is a psychological and/or moral disorder
The goal was to do whatever it took to make the patient change to an acceptable sexuality or gender identity.
Consequences:
(1) The therapy may reinforce the patient's negative self-image.
(2) The therapy may force the patient to lie about a change in behavior.
(3) Trying to change can cause the patient significant distress.
The patient may require psychotherapy for depression, stigma and other issues but should not be made to view their sexuality or orientation as wrong.
A problem may arise if the patient is the one who wants to make a change.
