
APA revises 'gay gene' theory [Excerpts]
The attempt to prove that homosexuality is determined biologically has been  dealt a knockout punch. An American Psychological Association publication  includes an admission that there's no homosexual "gene" -- meaning it's not  likely that homosexuals are born that way.
For decades, the APA has not  considered homosexuality a psychological disorder, while other professionals in  the field consider it to be a "gender-identity" problem. But the new statement,  which appears in a brochure called "Answers to Your Questions for a Better  Understanding of Sexual Orientation & Homosexuality," states the  following:
"There is no consensus among scientists about the exact  reasons that an individual develops a heterosexual, bisexual, gay or lesbian  orientation. Although much research has examined the possible genetic, hormonal,  developmental, social, and cultural influences on sexual orientation, no  findings have emerged that permit scientists to conclude that sexual orientation  is determined by any particular factor or factors. Many think that nature and  nurture both play complex roles...."
That contrasts with the APA's  statement in 1998: "There is considerable recent evidence to suggest that  biology, including genetic or inborn hormonal factors, play a significant role  in a person's sexuality."