LGBTQ+, a Choice or Mental Disorder?
Today, I’ll be addressing a topic that has long been the subject of debate, misunderstanding, controversy and sadly, bigot fuel: Homosexuality. It’s unfortunate that there is still such a widely held belief by so many, that being gay is a mental disorder, a choice, or my favorite, something that can be “contracted” through simple visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ people in society.
People like this believe that any sexual orientation other than heterosexuality is a perversion, a deviation from the "natural order of things’, but what they fail to realize is that in order to truly believe any of this, they must also believe that everyone that has ever lived or ever will live was born with an almost unlimited variety of differences, personality traits, preferences and orientations except for sexuality. In order for those previously mentioned, widely held beliefs to be true, in that one area of the human psyche, we must all be born exactly the same: Heterosexual.
Think about that…I mean really think about that.
This line of thinking simply does not hold up when examined objectively.
Well, it's time to set the record straight! Let's debunk these myths and shed some light on the truth.
The Notion of Homosexuality as a Mental Disorder:
First up, let's tackle the notion that homosexuality is a mental disorder. It's crucial to note that this belief is not at all supported by scientific research. Back in 1973, the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. This decision was based on an understanding that being gay is simply a normal variation of human sexuality. The World Health Organization followed suit in 1990, acknowledging that homosexuality should not be classified as a mental disorder. Despite this, we still continue to see prominent figures (with significant public influence) perpetuate this false narrative.
Example: In 1998, the American Family Association (AFA) distributed a flyer titled "Homosexual Behavior: Is It a Mental Disorder?" which proclaimed that homosexuality is indeed a mental disorder.
Example: In 2012, then-Pennsylvania state representative, Daryl Metcalfe, referred to homosexuality as a "homosexual agenda" and claimed that it was a "mental disorder" during a committee meeting on LGBT rights.
Example: In 2015, Republican Congressman Louie Gohmert from Texas expressed his belief that homosexuality is a disorder and referred to conversion therapy as a legitimate option for individuals who experience same-sex attraction.
Choice vs. Inherent Sexual Orientation:
Now, let's address the idea that being gay is a choice. To put it simply, it's not. Sexual orientation is a deeply ingrained aspect of someone's identity, and it is not something that people can simply choose or change at will (yes, there is science to support this). Just like curly hair or having a certain eye color, sexual orientation is a natural and inherent part of who someone is, without any conscious decision on their part.
Example: In 2011, then-Presidential candidate Michele Bachmann stated that homosexuality is a choice, comparing it to "sexual dysfunction" and suggesting that it could be altered through therapy.
Example: In 2012, former Republican Senator Rick Santorum stated that being gay is a choice and compared homosexuality to "man on child, man on dog" relations during an interview, generating significant controversy.
Example: In 2014, former NFL player and ESPN commentator, Chris Broussard, stated during an interview that being gay is a choice, adding that he believed homosexuality was "contrary to biblical teachings".
The Influences of LGBTQ+ Visibility & Normalization
Another myth that needs to be debunked is the belief that exposure to LGBTQ+ concepts can influence someone to become gay. “Wont anyone think of the children?!!??!!”
This idea is unfounded and contradicted by research. Sexual orientation is determined by a complex interplay of biological and genetic factors and is influenced by environmental factors. "Influenced by environmental factors" refers to the fact that the social and cultural environment can shape a person's understanding and acceptance of their sexual orientation, however it cannot cause their sexual orientation to change.
Many people point to the increase in people that identify as LGBTQ+ as obvious proof of the woke “homosexual agenda” to destroy marriage and the traditional family. The only thing that is obvious to me is that these people don’t understand the difference between real increase and apparent increase, which is the difference between identifying as LGBTQ+ and the actual number of individuals who are LGBTQ+. A real increase would be an actual rise in the number of LGBTQ+ people, of which there is simply no evidence to support that claim. What we’re actually seeing is an apparent increase which is a rise in reported numbers, not an actual rise in the number of gay people.
I along with many others believe that apparent increase stems from a greater willingness among newer generations to disclose their LGBTQ+ identities. Societal acceptance, more inclusive environments, better reporting methods, and a cultural shift that encourages open identification are the reasons why.
Here’s a look at what these folks are referring to:
Silent Generation (born 1928-1945): Estimates show around 2% or less LGBTQ+ identification, based on research from the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law and surveys by Gallup.
Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964): Estimates range between 2-5% LGBTQ+ identification, derived from various demographic studies and surveys on generational identification.
Generation X (born 1965-1980): Estimates between 5-7% LGBTQ+ identification, based on a combination of demographic studies and surveys examining generational identification and societal shifts.
Millennials (born 1981-1996): Numbers around 7-15% LGBTQ+ identification, based on studies by institutions like the Pew Research Center and demographic surveys tracking generational identification.
Generation Z (born after 1996): Estimates between 10-20% LGBTQ+ identification, derived from various demographic studies and surveys examining the self-identification patterns of this generation.
I’m Gen X, Bisexual AF and have absolutely lied and called myself heterosexual on surveys at various points of my life…just saying. I also know many many people just like me.
Why do some people continue to hold onto these beliefs, despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary? Well, there are a few factors at play. Limited education and exposure to diverse perspectives on human sexuality contributes heavily to these beliefs. Additionally, cultural and religious beliefs often shape individuals' perspectives on sexuality.
It's interesting to note that many of these individuals trust science when it comes to areas like medical treatments, medicine, geology, and biology. However, when it comes to the scientific consensus that sexual orientation is something we are born with they dismiss it. This pattern is similar to the denial of scientific findings on issues like climate change. It seems that for certain people, science is only deemed "wrong" when it contradicts deeply held beliefs.
Promoting Acceptance and Understanding
It's crucial to foster an environment of acceptance and understanding when it comes to human sexuality. By educating ourselves and others, challenging stereotypes, and promoting inclusivity, we can help dismantle these harmful and unfounded beliefs. Human sexuality is diverse and beautiful, and it's high time we celebrated that!
In today's post, we've debunked the myths surrounding homosexuality, namely the beliefs that it's a mental disorder, a choice, or influenced by outside factors. It's essential to rely on scientific research, the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, and the recognition of human diversity to guide our understanding of sexual orientation. Let's strive for a future where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, irrespective of their sexual orientation. Spread love, folks!
Remember, we always have the power to challenge and unlearn harmful beliefs to create a more inclusive and accepting society. Embracing diversity and celebrating the complexities of human experiences can lead us to a brighter and more compassionate future.