What is SOCE?

Sexual Orientation Change Efforts (SOCE) refer to a range of practices or interventions that seek to change an individual’s sexual orientation, including efforts to reduce or eliminate same-sex attraction or to increase heterosexual attraction. These practices have been described by various terms over time, including “conversion therapy” and “reparative therapy.” Historically, SOCE emerged in the 19th century, when homosexuality was classified as a mental disorder. Since then, the preponderance of research has demonstrated that gay and non-gay persons are indistinguishable on levels of stability, social and vocational adaptiveness, judgement, and psychological well-being.  Following the removal of homosexuality from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1973,

the use of SOCE declined within mainstream mental health practice. However, some practitioners and organizations have continued to promote these approaches. Over time, major health and mental health  organizations have issued position statements addressing SOCE, noting concerns regarding its effectiveness and associated risks.