Republican lawmakers push to ban gay conversion therapy in Utah

[pbrower2a]

Mormons are having to deal with homosexuality. It may be that conservative, traditionalist people are better able to deal with something that goes mainstream. When the Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage in Utah, the government told public officials that they might not have to sign marriage licenses for same-sex marriages, but that they would have to find someone who would. Would they rather have gays among them or break up extended families?

If anything, it is homophobia that presents itself as a cause for 'conversion therapy'.  Violent homophobia is dangerous to potential targets (and one does not need be a homosexual to be at risk) and a great risk for criminal conduct.

Does anyone know what causes homosexuality, anyway?

[pbrower2a]

Why didn’t the LDS church shut down the bill? I have no doubt that they don’t like this and they have enough sway to order any Mormon legislator to vote it down or face excommunication.

My suspicion: the LDS Church has enough trouble keeping people who would leave if they could not be Mormons if homosexual. People can choose their religious affiliation, but they do not choose being straight or homosexual.

Conversion therapy is psychological and medical malpractice. Mormonism is considered a cult in some parts of American life, and Mormons probably think that the sort of conversion therapy used against gays and lesbians could be used against someone who becomes a Mormon elsewhere.