|
Dean Byrd Lectures at Utah Valley State CollegeNARTH member A. Dean Byrd, Ph.D. recently made a presentation entitled "Homosexuality: Developmental Issues" in a History of Science Lecture at Utah Valley State College. Dr. Byrd is Director of Clinical Training for LDS Social Services and Clinical Professor at Brigham Young University and the University of Utah. "I have learned it's not productive to speak where I will be yelled down by a hostile audience," Dr. Byrd said. "I will only speak where the format will be balanced, and where I can be assured of a professional dialogue. "At Utah Valley College, I was the last scheduled speaker, following several days of presentations on biology and genetics. The audience of professionals seemed open to another viewpoint. It was an incredibly positive experience, and I commend the academic vice-president of the college, Dr. Elaine Englehardt, for her efforts to balance the discussion. "I offered the Greg Louganis story as a case history of a homosexual man exhibiting the classic developmental issues. I handed out a 25-page syllabus quoting research from Friedman and Downey, Hamer, Rekers, Satinover, and Byne & Parsons, among others. Then I concluded with a former patient telling his story." This ex-patient held the audience's attention as he related the following:
"All of my thoughts, fantasies and attractions were homosexual. There is no repression or suppression. I am waiting for the most blessed event in my life--my wife and I will have a child in a few weeks. "I struggled with homosexuality and not only was able to eliminate my homosexual attractions, but I was able to develop my true self as a fully heterosexual man."After Dr. Byrd's lecture, he received positive calls and letters from several members of the audience, including a faculty member who sought additional training. Vice President Englehardt wrote Dr. Byrd as follows: "As faculty we are grateful that we now know how to respond to students who are struggling in 'no man's land.' These students feel they are homosexual, but can't live with themselves when they act on their impulses. Your presentation was outstanding! Your help and research is vital."
Copyright © NARTH. All Rights Reserved. copyright © 1995-2010 Leadership U. All rights reserved. Updated: 14 July 2002 |