The impact of sexual orientation conversion therapies on transgender individuals

The purpose of sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) is to change an individual’s sexual orientation, not necessarily gender identity. Given that sexual orientation is a distinctly different construct than gender identity, sexual conversion therapy methods may be different for transgender individuals, and the impact may also be different. This qualitative multiple case study (N =4) investigated the experiences and impact of SOCE on transgender individuals in the Midwest using a phenomenological approach to develop the common meaning of a concept based on individuals’ shared lived experiences. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data on participants'’ experiences of having undergone SOCE, and these data were used to uncover and describe cross-cutting themes. Participants identified the following as influences for having undergone SOCE: transphobia in the household environment, residence in a gender-normative environment, and religiosity in interpersonal relationships. The methods used by religious practitioners and those practicing reparative therapy; included electric shock therapy, electric shock on genitals paired with homosexual stimuli, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. The immediate negative impacts of SOCE included feelings of inauthenticity, pretend acceptance of their biological sex, and conformation to gender norms. Lasting effects included loss of faith, lack of trust, sexual dysfunction, and negative self-esteem.