Homosexuality and the DSM
Homosexuality and the DSM
For this paper you will be considering several “This American Life” radio episodes that explore
issues related to mental illness and psychiatric diagnosis. Take notes while you listen. This will
make writing the paper (and providing the necessary details) much easier. There are two parts to
the paper. Part 1 involves a structured review of the show titled “81 words” (questions provided
below). This section should be 2-3 pages long and should include (a) a summarization of the
events leading to the removal of homosexuality from the DSM and (b) your specific responses to
the questions below. Part 2 is merely a thought exercise. There are no page minimums on this
portion of the paper. Simply listen to the clips, think about the messages/meanings conveyed by
the clips, and write a blurb for each clip (additional directions provided below).
The audio files for these radio broadcasts are available directly on Blackboard.
Part 1 (15 points)
Listen to the radio show This American Life titled 81 Words (two acts: 59 minutes) which
describes how homosexuality was removed from the DSM.
Please answer the following questions related to the radio show “81 words”. These do not have
to be woven together into a single narrative (although this is an option if you prefer). Rather, you
may simply label each response with the corresponding letter (e.g., (a), (b) and so on) but make
sure to provide details related to the question or you may lose points.
a. What were the negative consequences of diagnosing homosexuality as a mental disorder? Did
all gay individuals always view this diagnosis as being negative?
b. What were some of the early theories related to the causes of homosexuality?
c. Why did Evelyn Hooker’s study (using Rorschach responses) challenge the validity of
homosexuality as a mental disorder?
d. What group was Spitzer a part of in the APA early in his career, and why was his position very
important?
e. What factors led Robert Spitzer to advocating for dropping homosexuality as a diagnosis?
f. What are the justifications given by some mental health professionals to continue to provide
treatments for homosexuality? In your opinion, are these treatments justified?
Part 2
Your sole job in this second part of the paper is to listen to, and think about, each segment and
articulate what you believe you can “take away” from each clip (four acts) from the show titled
Edge of Sanity (59 minutes- all four acts). In other words, what kernel of information or insight
into the human condition can you apply to your own future clinical interactions (including the
application of diagnostic labels) with your clients? You can describe, as many relevant
thoughts/considerations as you feel are necessary. Copy and paste links provided below in your
internet search bar to complete.
https://www.thisamericanlife.org/204/81-words
https://www.thisamericanlife.org/52/edge-of-sanity
