It was also found that they were able to function effectively in society, and that those who sought treatment most often did so for reasons other than their sexual orientation. Sexual orientation, like gender identity, appears to be established early in life. There is no evidence that altering sexual orientation is an appropriate goal of psychiatric treatment. Clinical experience suggests that attempts to change sexual orientation may occasionally result in behavioral changes for some motivated individuals for limited periods of time, but that such changes often are accompanied by depression, anxiety, and other symptoms. Some may seek conversion to heterosexuality on that account.
Clinical experience suggests that relief of homophobia allows for better psychological functioning.
Those who have integrated their sexual orientation into a positive sense of themselves function at a healthier psychological level than those who have not. Sensitive and Affirmative Therapy Homosexual and bisexual men and women have experienced increased social acceptance and recognition over the last several decades. These factors can contribute to shame and poor self-esteem, and be a component in the mental health presentation of some homosexuals and bisexuals seeking psychotherapy or psychopharmacology. Whereas homosexuality per se implies no impairment in judgment, stability, reliability, or general social or vocational capabilities, therefore, be it resolved that the American Psychiatric Association deplores all public and private discrimination against homosexuals in such areas as employment, housing, public accommodation, and licensing, and declares that no burden of proof of such judgment, capacity, or reliability shall be placed upon homosexuals greater than that imposed on any other persons. Further, the American Psychiatric Association supports and urges the enactment of civil rights legislation at the local, state, and federal level that would offer homosexual citizens the same protections now guaranteed to others on the basis of race, creed, color, etc.