Fact Check: "Nearly 700,000 LGBTQ adults in the US underwent conversion therapy."
What We Know
The claim that "nearly 700,000 LGBTQ adults in the US underwent conversion therapy" appears to stem from studies and surveys conducted on the prevalence of conversion therapy practices in the United States. According to a report by the Williams Institute, a research center at UCLA School of Law, approximately 700,000 LGBTQ adults in the U.S. have undergone conversion therapy at some point in their lives. This figure is derived from a survey that included responses from LGBTQ individuals regarding their experiences with such practices, particularly among those who were subjected to conversion therapy during their adolescence (source-1).
Conversion therapy, also known as "reparative therapy," is a range of practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. Many professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association and the American Medical Association, have condemned these practices as harmful and ineffective (source-2).
Analysis
The figure of 700,000 is significant and highlights a troubling aspect of LGBTQ history in the U.S. However, the reliability of this statistic depends on the methodology of the studies from which it is derived. The Williams Institute's research is based on self-reported data, which can be subject to biases and inaccuracies. While the institute is a reputable source known for its work on LGBTQ issues, the reliance on self-reported experiences means that the actual number could vary.
Moreover, the context in which conversion therapy is practiced is crucial. Many states have enacted laws banning conversion therapy for minors, but it remains legal in several states for adults (source-3). This legal landscape can influence the prevalence of conversion therapy practices and the willingness of individuals to report their experiences.
Additionally, the term "conversion therapy" encompasses a wide range of practices, from counseling sessions to more extreme forms of treatment. This variability can complicate the interpretation of the statistic, as not all individuals may have experienced the same level of intervention or harm.
In summary, while the claim is based on a reputable source, the complexities surrounding the definition of conversion therapy, the methodologies used in surveys, and the legal context suggest that further research is needed to fully understand the scope and impact of these practices.
Conclusion
Needs Research. The claim that nearly 700,000 LGBTQ adults in the U.S. have undergone conversion therapy is supported by data from the Williams Institute, but the reliability of this figure is contingent upon the methodologies used in the studies and the definitions of conversion therapy. Given the potential for variability in experiences and the importance of context, further investigation is warranted to clarify the prevalence and implications of conversion therapy practices.
