The latest news about so-called reparative, conversion, and ex-gay therapy and the quest to outlaw it. Condemned by the American Psychiatric Association, ex-gay therapy is based on the belief that a person can be "cured" of their sexual attraction and that conversion from homosexuality to heterosexuality is possible. Proponents of the controversial treatment include the National Association for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality as well as Christian fundamentalist organizations. Various means of implementing this therapy include prayer groups, electroshock therapy, and training in gender behavior.
A therapist had claimed the ban infringed on his free speech and religious liberty rights. But Washington State's regulation of the practice is appropriate, the court ruled.
New Zealand passes a law banning use of the practice on minors and certain others, while Israel issues rules barring medical professionals from offering it.
