By Susan Brinkmann, OCDS
Staff Writer
Are people with homosexual tendencies “born that way?” Not according to the American Psychological Association (APA) which has published a revised opinion on the possibility of a “gay gene” being responsible for same-sex attraction. The organization now says “no findings have emerged” that permit science to prove the existence of a “gay gene.”
According to a report by World Net Daily, the statement is appearing on a revised version of an APA brochure that first came out in 1998. The brochure formerly stated: “There is considerable recent evidence to suggest that biology, including genetic or inborn hormonal factors, play a significant role in a person’s sexuality.”
The revised brochure, now called “Answers to Your Questions for a Better Understanding of Sexual Orientation & Homosexuality,” reflects a new APA position on the subject:
“There is no consensus among scientists about the exact reasons that an individual develops a heterosexual, bisexual, gay or lesbian orientation. Although much research has examined the possible genetic, hormonal, developmental, social, and cultural influences on sexual orientation, no findings have emerged that permit scientists to conclude that sexual orientation is determined by any particular factor or factors. Many think that nature and nurture both play complex roles…”
“Although there is no mention of the research that influenced this new position statement, it is clear that efforts to ‘prove’ that homosexuality is simply a biological fait accompli have failed,” writes A. Dean Byrd, past president of NARTH (National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality). “The activist researchers themselves have reluctantly reached that conclusion. There is no gay gene. There is no simple biological pathway to homosexuality.”
Byrd said that although past APA documents “have strong activist overtones,” this latest statement “is more reflective of science and more consistent with the ethicality of psychological care.”
“On the question of whether or not therapy can change sexual orientation, the former document offered a resounding ‘no.’ However, the current document is much more nuanced and contains the following statement: ‘To date, there has been no scientifically adequate research to show that therapy (sometimes called reparative or conversion therapy) is safe or effective,'” Byrd wrote.
A spokesman for NARTH said the change in statements, although not brand new, is considered significant for the organization.
The APA has refused to respond to press inquiries for further comment.
© All Rights Reserved, Living His Life Abundantly/Women of Grace. http://www.womenofgrace.com
