October 20 , 2006
Is Homosexuality Genetic?

EMBARGO: Immediate Release
Date: 20 October 2006
Enquiries: Heinrich Botes
Mobile: +27 72 219 1962

It is with concern that Doctors For Life International (DFL) notes a persistence of ignorance amongst some members of the press when they quote scientifically incorrect conclusions about the origins of homosexuality.

Since the early 1990s, studies attempting to establish a genetic causation have not proven to be valid or replicable. Indeed, the current scientific consensus is that homosexuality is caused by a complex interaction of biological, psychological and social/environmental factors. This is further born out by the fact that the American Psychological Association admits this.

Of the about seven major studies that were originally taken as an indication that homosexuality may be genetically inherited, not a single study finally proved to be conclusive. While these studies were largely reported by the media as showing a genetic basis for homosexuality, it is important to note what the researchers themselves said about their work:

• Of the 1991 Hypothalamus Study, Simon LeVay, who is a gay man, said: "It's important to stress what I didn't find. I did not prove that homosexuality is genetic, or find a genetic cause for being gay. I didn't show that gay men are born that way, the most common mistake people make in interpreting my work."
• Of the 1993 X Chromosome Study, Dean Hamer - also a gay man - said, "environmental factors play a role. There is not a single master gene that makes people gay. I don't think we will ever be able to predict who will be gay."
• And of the 2005 and 2006 pheromone studies on fruit flies (the most recent major study that were taken as proof of the genetic origin of homosexuality), the lead researcher said the study had nothing to do with proving homosexuality to be biological and that "it is very important to make clear that the study has no implications for possible dynamics in sexual orientation." (Our emphasis)

What has discouraged many homosexuals and lesbians from arguing that homosexuality is indeed hereditary was the fact that it was being seen as some form of congenital disease or abnormality by large parts of the public. Some parents even went as far as requesting genetic screening of their pre-born babies and requesting an abortion if the suspected “homosexual gene” was found. (This conclusion is obviously due to the fact that the anatomy of two homosexual men, or two lesbian women is strikingly incompatible for sexual intercourse, and are incapable of natural procreation). Large groups of the homosexual and lesbian community consequently opposes the argument that homosexuality is genetically inherited. Kate Kendell, director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, argues that sexual orientation is not fixed. Lesbian columnist and psychotherapist Jackie Black says that sexuality is not static. Further, lesbian author Camille Paglia argues that homosexuality is not normal and that it is an adaptation, not an inborn trait.

While no one knows for sure what causes homosexuality, recent research confirms that permanent change is indeed possible. Pro-gay ally Dr. Robert Spitzer of Columbia University says that some homosexuals have successfully changed their sexual orientation. In 2001, he published results from a five-year study of 200 gay men and lesbians who had sought "re-orientation" therapy. Spitzer found that most have been able to achieve fulfilling heterosexual relationships. While his research shows that such change often involves a difficult and long journey, it is nevertheless possible for highly motivated individuals. Indeed, some programs for “re-orientation” therapy have a success rate of up to 60%.

DFL, an association of more than 1000 medical doctors and specialists across South Africa and the globe, remains committed to the holistic health of all South Africans. DFL’s activities include HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, as well as home based care of terminal AIDS patients in rural communities.