Examining the Experiences of Conversion Practices of Sexually and Gender Diverse People in Portugal.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of conversion practices and their association with mental health among sexually and gender diverse (SGD) people in Portugal.

METHODS

Four hundred and twenty-four SGD individuals (mean age = 26.6) completed an online survey regarding their experiences of therapy and conversion practices. Data were collected between March 2021 and December 2022. Through analysis of variance, participants who reported a conversion practice were compared with those who had not on their levels of psychological distress (Clinical Outcome Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure).

RESULTS

Almost 22% of participants (n = 91) reported being subjected to conversion practices, with 22% of such practices performed by a mental health professional. More than one third (38.5%) of participants specifically searched for a conversion practice, whereas for the remainder it was recommended/coerced by others. The mean age at the start of the practice was 16.5 years. Among participants who reported undergoing conversion practices and who responded to these questions, more than half reported feeling obliged or pressured to start the conversion practice and more than one third felt forced to stay in the process. Participants reporting a conversion experience showed significantly lower subjective well-being and life functioning and significantly higher problems/symptoms and risk than those who did not.

CONCLUSION

A high prevalence of conversion practices and their pervasive effects on mental health were shown in this study. It further highlighted how SGD youth are at greater risk of being subjected to such practices. Legislation to criminalize such practices and protect SGD individuals is urgent.