Quick Takeaways

• The World Health Organization, through its regional office (the Pan American Health Organization), has formally rejected conversion therapy as ineffective and harmful.

• The WHO's International Classification of Diseases does not classify same-sex attraction or being transgender as a mental disorder.

• Every major medical organization in the United States and key international bodies agree: conversion therapy does not work.

• SAMHSA found that young people exposed to these practices face significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and thoughts of suicide.

• Christian parents can protect their children and honor their faith without turning to practices the global medical community has discredited.

Why the WHO's Position Matters to Christian Parents

When you are searching for answers about your child, who they are attracted to, or how they see themselves, it is natural to want trustworthy guidance. You may hear people in your community recommend conversion therapy as a solution. But before making any decisions, it helps to know what the world's leading health authorities have found.

The World Health Organization is the United Nations agency responsible for international public health. Its regional arm, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), has taken a clear position: conversion therapy has no medical basis and poses serious risks. PAHO is listed among the international health organizations that have formally moved to end these practices, alongside the World Psychiatric Association and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.

This is not a political opinion. It is the conclusion of scientists, doctors, and researchers from around the globe. And it is the same conclusion reached by every major American medical and mental health organization.

What the Research Shows

The WHO's position reflects a growing body of evidence. According to SAMHSA, in its 2023 report Moving Beyond Change Efforts, these practices are "dangerous, discredited, and ineffective." SAMHSA's expert panel concluded that change efforts targeting who a young person is attracted to or how they see themselves "are harmful and should never be provided."

The WHO's International Classification of Diseases does not consider same-sex attraction or being transgender a mental disorder. Dr. Judith Glassgold, the lead expert on SAMHSA's consensus panel, has noted that this classification is consistent with current state-level bans on conversion therapy for minors.

Research also connects these practices to lasting mental health consequences, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Courts have taken notice, too. In Ferguson v. JONAH (2015), a New Jersey jury unanimously found that a conversion therapy organization had committed consumer fraud. The judge stated that describing same-sex attraction as a curable mental disorder was itself fraudulent.

What This Means for Your Family

For Christian parents, this information does not ask you to abandon your faith. It asks you to protect your child from practices that every credible health authority in the world has found to be harmful.

Conversion therapy is a scam. Anyone who claims they can change who your child is attracted to or how they see themselves is making promises no legitimate science supports. That is not pastoral care. It is a transaction that profits from your love and your fear, and the stories of families who trusted these programs confirm the damage left behind.

You can be faithful to God and still say no to "conversion therapy." Families, not strangers in a clinical setting, know what is best for their children. The safest path is the one your family walks together.

FAQs

Has the World Health Organization officially condemned conversion therapy? The WHO's regional office, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), has formally rejected conversion therapy. PAHO is listed alongside the World Psychiatric Association among international bodies working to end these practices, per SAMHSA's 2023 report Moving Beyond Change Efforts.

Does the WHO classify same-sex attraction as a mental disorder? No. The WHO's International Classification of Diseases does not classify same-sex attraction or being transgender as a mental disorder. Dr. Judith Glassgold, SAMHSA's lead expert, confirmed this is consistent with conversion therapy bans across the United States.

Why should Christian parents care about the WHO's position? The WHO represents the consensus of medical and scientific experts worldwide. Its position confirms what American organizations like the American Psychological Association and American Medical Association have also concluded: conversion therapy is ineffective and causes serious harm.

Is there a difference between conversion therapy and pastoral counseling? Yes. Pastoral counseling that provides acceptance and support for a young person is not conversion therapy. "Conversion therapy" specifically aims to change who a person is attracted to or how they see themselves through techniques discredited by the global medical community.

What should I do instead of conversion therapy? Seek faith-focused support that honors your values and your child's wellbeing. Resources like FreedHearts, Fortunate Families, and PFLAG's faith-based guides offer practical tools for Christian parents navigating these conversations without risking their child's mental health or family unity.