#Churches demand #Scotland drop #conversiontherapy #ban plan, saying it will ‘#criminalise’ #christians
New #SNP #leader #HumzaYousaf has promised to “cement” #LGBTQ+ #rights in #Scotland, with #supporters hoping he will push a “real #comprehensive #ban on #conversiontherapy through”.
#Women #Transgender #LGBTQIA #UK #Scotland #Religion #Hate #Bigotry #Violence #Homophobia #Transphobia #EmptyThePews
https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/04/03/scotland-conversion-therapy-ban-church-backlash/
Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy or sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE), refers to a range of practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, usually from being LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer) to being heterosexual and cisgender.
These practices are based on the false belief that being LGBTQ+ is a mental disorder or a moral failing that can be "cured" or "corrected."
Conversion therapy can take various forms, including psychological counseling, aversion therapy, and even more extreme methods such as electroconvulsive therapy or "exorcisms."
These practices have been widely discredited and condemned by major medical and mental health organizations, including the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization, and the American Medical Association.
Conversion therapy has been shown to cause significant psychological harm, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, self-hatred, and suicidal ideation among those subjected to it.
Due to its harmful effects, several countries and jurisdictions have banned or restricted the use of conversion therapy, particularly on minors.
However, it is still practiced in some places, often in secret or under the guise of "religious counseling" or "self-help" programs.
The bottom line is that if any individuals or organizations, regardless of their religious beliefs, are subjecting or advocating for LGBTQ+ people to be subjected to harmful practices like torture, they should be held accountable and face legal consequences.
The focus should be on promoting understanding, empathy, and acceptance for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and ensuring laws and regulations are in place to protect their rights and dignity
Susan Larson ♀️🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️🌈