Not That There's Anything Wrong With That...

Seinfeld fans will recognize the reference in the title, and that may be the best way to introduce this story:

The American Psychological Association - the largest association of psychologists world-wide – now says it’s ethical -- and can be beneficial -- for counselors to help some clients reject gay or lesbian attractions.

The association plans to promote the new approach to sexuality with YouTube videos, speeches to schools and churches, and presentations to Christian counselors, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.

According to new APA guidelines, the therapist must make clear that homosexuality doesn't signal a mental or emotional disorder. The counselor must advise clients that gay men and women can lead happy and healthy lives, and emphasize that there is no evidence therapy can change sexual orientation.

But if the client still believes that affirming his same-sex attractions would be sinful or destructive to his faith, psychologists can help him construct an identity that rejects the power of those attractions, the APA says.

That might require living celibately, learning to deflect sexual impulses or framing a life of struggle as an opportunity to grow closer to God.

So, the same people who think you're crazy if you oppose the notion of human-caused global warming also think it's okay to tell a gay person they can reject their attractions. I don't think I've ever quoted the APA on anything before, and today I have two posts featuring that bunch. Funny how that happens sometimes.

All that aside, what the APA is promoting in this announcement is very similar to what I've already heard taught in church for years. This isn't any great new revelation and I doubt that there are any churches that need their help.