User:SuzySchaffer/sandbox

Research[edit]
The term 'gay affirmative therapy was coined and defined by [first name] Malyon in 1982 as therapy that challenges the pathological view of homosexuality and has the therapist develop knowledge on gay-specific issues to better treat gay clients. This was 5 years before homosexuality was removed from the DSM in 1987. This model works to consider the effects of sexuality-based oppression and discrimination on gay individuals and couples mental health and affirm the individual in their sexuality-specific experiences.

One of the emerging areas of research regarding gay affirmative psychotherapy is related to the process of assisting LGBTQ individuals from religious backgrounds feel comfortable with their sexual and gender orientation. Narrative analyses of clinicians' reports regarding gay affirmative psychotherapy suggest that the majority of conflicts discussed within the therapeutic context by gay men and their relatives from religious backgrounds are related to the interaction between family, self, and religion. Clinicians report that gay men and their families struggle more frequently with the institution, community, and practices of religion rather than directly with God. Chana Etengoff and Colette Daiute report in the Journal of Homosexuality that clinicians most frequently address these tensions by emphasizing the mediational strategies of increasing self-awareness, seeking secular support (e.g., PFLAG), and increasing positive communication between family members.

Gay Affirmative Therapy for Youth and Families.

In recent years gay affirmative therapy has been adapted for youth populations who are struggling with their sexuality. Research has shown that sexual minority children and adolescents are more likely to develop depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and attempt suicide. Affirmation of one's sexual orientation and experiences has shown to be effective in treating related mental health concerns [cite]. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has the most supportive evidence for treating general LGBTQ+ populations and has been extended to youth populations as well. It is currently considered by some psychologists as the best evidence-based practice for working with sexual minority youth.

There is currently little research on affirmative interventions for families, and most research focuses on lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals becoming parents, with implications that transition to parenting training might be beneficial for sexual minority parents. Little research has been done on family therapy for sexual minority youth and family support.