Exodus International - Exodus Applauds Study Showing Change to be Possible & Sustainable

Orlando, FL- Psychologists Stanton L. Jones and Mark A. Yarhouse announced the newest results of a study showing that sexual orientation change is not only possible, but sustainable at a symposium today at the American Psychological Association's annual convention in Toronto. The findings directly contradict commonly expressed views of the mental health establishment that say this option is impossible and that the attempt to change is likely to produce harm. Two former APA presidents, Dr. Nicholas Cummings and Dr. Frank Farley, were present to discuss these findings.

The new report builds upon original research conducted by Drs. Jones and Yarhouse published in the 2007 book, Ex-Gays? A Longitudinal Study of Religiously Mediated Change in Sexual Orientation. It was the first longitudinal study of its kind to scientifically examine the lives of men and women seeking sexual orientation change through involvement in a variety of Christian ministries associated with Exodus International. The research found that sexual orientation change was possible and not likely to cause harm.

The research findings announced today extend these findings out to between six and seven years for the subjects in the study and showed continued and sustainable long-term change. The continuity found in the results reiterate the fact that these individuals are critical to the ongoing scientific dialogue over sexuality, orientation and faith.

While Drs. Jones and Yarhouse acknowledge that this study does not prove that everyone or anyone can change, it quantifies through data that some can. As such, the study suggests that all should respect the integrity and autonomy of those seeking this option for moral, religious or other reasons, just as those who desire to affirm and embrace a gay life are respected.

"It is gratifying to see research that honestly reflects my experience as well as that of thousands of others," said Randy Thomas, Executive Vice President for Exodus International. "This study not only gives credence to our lives, but positively contributes to the ongoing cultural dialogue over sexual and gender identity as well." Thomas, who attended the Toronto symposium where these findings were announced, added, "We hope that future research efforts will make room for our experiences so that personal autonomy and religious diversity are respected both in the field of science and in the public arena."

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VIEW the Jones/Yarhouse Study

VIEW the press release on this topic from InterVarsity Press

VIEW the APA's report

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To arrange an interview on the Jones/Yarhouse research, contact Heather Mascarello at hmascarello@ivpress.com or by phone: 630-430-1526.