Under direction from an internal, pro-gay committee, the APA published a new brochure to clarify its position on homosexuality.  Instead of its usual born gay viewpoint, the new guide acknowledges no scientific consensus about why someone is homosexual.  Dean Byrd is with the National Association for the Research and Therapy of Homosexuality.

“The other thing that’s quite intriguing with this new document is it highlights the importance of self-determination and that should call all mental health organizations to respect the person’s right to self-determination including their faith tradition.”

He thinks there has been pressure both inside and outside the APA to refrain from publishing an unscientific, political agenda. Randy Thomas with Exodus International agrees.

“They are starting to have the integrity of reporting accurately about the condition of homosexuality.  We find this to be a very exciting move and hope that it indicates future movement toward recognizing that people can and do overcome homosexuality.” 

Glenn Stanton of Focus on the Family says the brochure still has an activist bent but he sees a ray of hope.

“This doesn’t mean that we’ve completely succeeded in all the things that we’ve wanted to, but it’s a move in the direction that we’ve wanted them move in and I think that’s very positive news.”

Byrd says the APA is finally acknowledging what he and family groups have been saying for years.