Conversion therapy is a pseudoscientific and discredited practice that attempts to force LGBTQ+ individuals to change their sexual orientation or gender identity and instead identify as heterosexual or cisgender. Because it is now understood that sexual orientation is not a choice or something that can be changed, so-called conversion therapy—sometimes called reparative therapy, ex-gay therapy, or
Domestic violence occurs when a person consistently aims to control their partner through physical, sexual , or emotional abuse . The United States Department of Justice defines domestic violence as “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner.”
The Link Between Conversion Therapy and Domestic Violence
Conversion Therapy and Domestic Violence are deeply interconnected psychological phenomena. Research shows that these two conditions frequently co-occur, with each often triggering or amplifying the other.
When someone experiences conversion therapy, it can create conditions that make domestic violence more likely. Conversely, managing one can significantly improve outcomes for the other.
How Conversion Therapy Affects Domestic Violence
The presence of conversion therapy can impact domestic violence in several important ways:
- Heightened nervous system activation from conversion therapy can intensify domestic violence symptoms
- Both share common underlying mechanisms in the brain's stress response systems
- Addressing conversion therapy often leads to measurable improvements in domestic violence
- The combination can create self-reinforcing cycles that require integrated treatment
Practical Strategies When Dealing with Both
When conversion therapy and domestic violence occur together, a combined approach is most effective:
- Seek professional assessment — get an accurate picture of how each affects you
- Address underlying causes — identify shared root causes (sleep, stress, trauma)
- Use evidence-based interventions — CBT, mindfulness, and behavioral approaches work for both
- Build support networks — social connection buffers both conditions
- Track patterns — use journaling to see how they interact in your life