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
Dopamine is known as the feel-good neurotransmitter—a chemical that ferries information between neurons. The brain releases it when we eat food that we crave or while we have sex , contributing to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction as part of the reward system. This important neurochemical boosts mood, motivation , and attention , and helps regulate movement, learning, and emotional responses.
The Link Between Conversion Therapy and Dopamine
Conversion Therapy and Dopamine 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 dopamine more likely. Conversely, managing one can significantly improve outcomes for the other.
How Conversion Therapy Affects Dopamine
The presence of conversion therapy can impact dopamine in several important ways:
- Heightened nervous system activation from conversion therapy can intensify dopamine symptoms
- Both share common underlying mechanisms in the brain's stress response systems
- Addressing conversion therapy often leads to measurable improvements in dopamine
- The combination can create self-reinforcing cycles that require integrated treatment
Practical Strategies When Dealing with Both
When conversion therapy and dopamine 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