The American Psychiatric Association (APA) officially stopped classifying homosexuality as a mental illness on December 15, 1973.
The APA's Landmark Decision
On December 15, 1973, the American Psychiatric Association made a pivotal decision that reversed a century-old stance, issuing a resolution stating unequivocally that homosexuality is neither a mental illness nor a sickness. This landmark declaration came at a time when societal views often still perceived gay people as deviants, marking a significant step forward in the understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.
This shift was the result of growing advocacy from within and outside the psychiatric community, highlighting that same-sex attraction was a normal variation of human sexuality, not a disorder. The formal removal from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the United States, soon followed. This resolution was a critical turning point, influencing public perception and paving the way for further advancements in LGBTQ+ rights and mental health support.
Key aspects of this historic decision include:
- Date of Resolution: December 15, 1973
- Organization: American Psychiatric Association (APA)
- Nature of Action: Issuance of a formal resolution
- Core Statement: Homosexuality is explicitly declared as neither a mental illness nor a sickness.
- Historical Context: This decision marked a reversal of a long-standing classification, occurring during an era when prevailing societal attitudes often stigmatized gay individuals.
This profound change reflected a growing scientific consensus and increased awareness, emphasizing that discrimination and societal pressures, rather than homosexuality itself, were often the root causes of distress experienced by gay individuals.
For further information on this significant historical event, you can refer to resources like The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses.
