Dr. Joseph Berger's recent statements have caused a bit of anger in certain parts of the gay identified blogosphere. Dr. Throckmorton also reports on this.
Dr. Joseph Berger is reported to have stated (original article removed from the NARTH website):
I suggest, indeed, letting children who wish go to school in clothes of the opposite sex - but not counselling other children to not tease them or hurt their feelings. On the contrary, don't interfere, and let the other children ridicule the child who has lost that clear boundary between play-acting at home and the reality needs of the outside world. Maybe, in this way, the child will re-establish that necessary boundary.
After contacting NARTH about our concerns over this statement, Exodus received the following reply from them explaining the organizational view of Dr. Berger's advice. They gave us permission to release this statement from them.
NARTH disagrees with Dr. Berger's advice as we believe shaming, as distinct from correcting can only create greater harm.Too many of our clients experienced the often life long, harmful effects of peer shaming. We cannot encourage this.
Here is the Exodus response to the above clarification from NARTH.
Exodus commends NARTH for its distinction regarding the harmful emotional damage of peer shaming. So many of us as former homosexuals know, firsthand, that public or private humiliation can serve no beneficial purpose. We must demonstrate compassion and honor the dignity and worth of each person.
