Psychology Today: Ad uproar - Feedback

In regard to your editorial "Am I Anti-Gay" (February 2003), I appreciate your candor about gay stereotypes but deplore the endorsement of anti-gay advertising. The real issue is about perpetuating prejudice and not about your thoughts on sexual preferences. I resent your implication that homosexuality is a disorder like gambling or drinking. There are many well-adjusted individuals who are not in need of change.

Laurie McCormick,
M.D. Via e-mail

Editor in Chief Robert Epstein replies:

I have said repeatedly that homosexuality is a natural condition, not a disorder, and I have never endorsed any form of anti-gay advertising.

I do not believe in censorship; everyone is entitled to an opinion. I applaud your decision for running Joseph Nicolosi's ad for A Parent's Guide to Preventing Homosexuality (December 2002).

Eugene Muller
Montvale, NJ

Thank you for your thoughtful editorial. I've been subject to much abuse for agreeing to help those who wish to change their behavior or reduce unwanted attractions. I derived inspiration from your commitment to fairness and truth.

Shlomo Jessel
Israel

Thank you for running [Nicolosi's] ad. I'm not any kind of activist, nor am I homophobic, mentally ill or socially sheltered. I'm just an American who believes in freedom of speech. I wish your magazine the support needed to overcome this bullying.

Marie Wyler
Via e-mail

If a person is unhappy with his or her sexuality and is seeking a change, then help from a book or therapist would be appropriate. Pushing your beliefs onto someone else is not appropriate.

Patricia Spano
Bloomington, IN

I don't think I would be here today if not for the professional counselors who helped me overcome my homosexual struggle. I appreciate those who respect the valid research available.

Don Corne
Via e-mail

I slept with hundreds of men and considered a sex change. I am now a happily married father of two. I appreciate your tackling the subject. I'm sorry there are extremes on both sides of the debate. But I am happy that people like you (and I do disagree with some of what you wrote) at least believe in the right to explore what is right. Please continue to keep a balanced, open mind. A life like mine could depend on it.

Marc S.
Via e-mail