from "Born that way" theory

Individuals With Unwanted Same-Sex Attractions Find Help From Ohio Ministry

June 13, 2006 - A feature published in The Columbus Dispatch (June 11) describes the work of New Pathways Ohio, a ministry affiliated with Exodus International.

The head of New Pathways is headed by Elton L. Moose of Springfield, an ex-gay and one of the charter members of the National Association for Research and Therapy of Homosexuality. Moose was also a participant in Dr. Robert Spitzer's study of individuals who have dealt with their same-sex attractions.

Columbus Dispatch reporter Rita Price interviewed three men who attend New Pathways in an effort to deal with their unwanted same-sex attractions. David, who only wanted his first name used in the article, told her: "Don't tell me that I have to be gay. Who is the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, to say that no one can change? Can you be certain there are no white ravens? No, you can't. Not unless you've seen them all."

David continued: "We call ourselves overcomers. We are not defined by our temptations. I'm still a virgin with both genders. If I did less than 1 percent of what went on in my mind, I'd have died of AIDS long ago."

Lynne Bowman, head of Equality Ohio believes that the growth of ex-gay movements is a hindrance to the struggle for gay acceptance. She notes: "It's the only question that matters. People think that if it's a choice, or something that can be changed, then we shouldn't be protecting the rights of those are gay."


Additional Reading: "Born that way" Theory -- Is Homosexuality Genetic?