Labyrinths of Identity: Efficacy of Sexual Orientation Transformation Efforts

The study focuses on analyzing programs known as Sexual Orientation Change Efforts (SOCE), which aim to reduce unwanted same-sex attractions. Currently, evidence about how effective or safe such methods are is mainly based on personal stories of participants or small studies among people who identify as sexual minorities, which excludes the possibility of changing their orientation. Our study is designed to examine the intended outcomes and potential risks for those who participate in SOCE, regardless of their current sexual orientation. Methods: We examined a sample of 1904227 people who had undergone SOCE for homosexual to-heterosexual change in sexual attraction, identity and behavior, and for positive and negative changes in psychosocial problem domains (depression, suicidality, self-harm, self-esteem, social function, and alcohol or substance abuse). Mean change was assessed by parametric (t-test) and nonparametric (Wilcoxon signed-rank test) significance tests. The sample was completely random. In addition to self-reports, technical verification methods such as control images, control questions, and penile plethysmography were also directly used. We obtained minimal evidence of lies from the participants using methods from the nineteen hundredth years that have shown great effectiveness. The participants were recruited in different ways, using multiple recruitment methods, including online surveys, face-to-face interviews, and collaboration with professional associations, churches, and other relevant organizations This allows you to reach a wider range of participants. Results: The study revealed significant changes in the participants who completed the SOCE programs aimed at changing their sexual orientation. These changes included a marked decrease in same-sex attraction, measured on the Kinsey scale: the average values decreased from 5.7 to 1.2, showing a statistically significant improvement (p <.000). The participants also noted changes in self-identification, where the indicators changed from 4.8 to 2.4 (p < .000), indicating significant shifts in the perception of their own sexuality. In addition, the frequency of same-sex sexual activity also decreased, moving from 3.1 to 0 on a 4-point scale (p < .000). This change indicates a significant reduction in such activity among program participants. Of the participants, between 3% to 7% were able to at least partially reduce unwanted urges, while 90-94% achieved a complete reduction in urges, identity changes, and behavior. However, 3% of participants experienced increased same-sex orientation after participating in the programs, which highlights the complexity of the impact of such interventions. In the context of psychosocial changes, about 0.6% of participants reported significant negative effects, indicating potential risks. Nevertheless, 61% noted a significant improvement in psychosocial terms, which indicates the positive impact of the programs on this area. Overall, the results showed that the changes were predominantly positive for all the aspects studied, despite the existing risks and challenges. Each of the self-calculations was tested based on control issues, control images and penile plethysmography. The lie of participants was minimal and was only 1% of the total number of participants. Conclusion: SOCE was perceived as an effective and safe therapeutic practice.