The Royal College shares the concern of both the American
Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association
that positions espoused by bodies like the National Association for
Research and Therapy of Homosexuality (NARTH) in the United States
are not supported by science. There is no sound scientific evidence
that sexual orientation can be changed. Furthermore so-called
treatments of homosexuality as recommended by NARTH create a
setting in which prejudice and discrimination can flourish.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists holds the view that lesbian,
gay and bisexual people should be regarded as valued members of
society who have exactly similar rights and responsibilities as all
other citizens. This includes equal access to health care, the
rights and responsibilities involved in a civil partnership, the
rights and responsibilities involved in procreating and bringing up
children, freedom to practice a religion as a lay person or
religious leader, freedom from harassment or discrimination in any
sphere and a right to protection from therapies that are
potentially damaging, particularly those that purport to change
sexual orientation.
In 1973 the American Psychiatric Association concluded there was
no scientific evidence that homosexuality was a disorder and
removed it from its diagnostic glossary of mental disorders. The
International Classification of Diseases of the World Health
Organisation followed suit in 1992.
For further information, please contact Liz Fox or Deborah
Hart in the Communications Department.
Telephone: 020 7235 2351 Extensions. 6298 or 6127