The philosophical faculty: Homosexuality Is Not Mental Disorder

The Department of Psychology, the Department of Social Labor and the Programme for Gender Research and Research of the Pristina University Faculty of Philosophy states that homosexuality is not mental disorder.

The American Psychological Association has removed homosexuality from the list of mental disorders since 1973. On the other hand, scientific evidence proves that prejudice, social stigma, discrimination and violence promoted by homophobic and transphobic influence the psychological, physical, social, economic well - being of persons LGBTIQ+”, the statement says.

Also, through the declaration, it is called on lawmakers and national policy makers to support the development of legal and public policies, which are in line with human rights.

Full statement:

Referring to institutional and public discussions regarding the Civil Code of the Republic of Kosovo

The Department of Psychology, the Department of Social Labor and the Programme for Studies and Gender Research of the Faculty of Philosophy of the University of Pristina, being committed to implementing international standards for promoting science and using scientific evidence in support of fair information, advancing knowledge and forming good civic values declare that:

Homosexuality is not mental disorder. The American Psychological Association has turned homosexuality away from the list of mental disorders since 1973 (Conger, 1975).

On the other hand, scientific evidence proves that prejudice, social stigma, discrimination, and violence promoted by homophobic and transphobic influence the psychological, physical, social, economic well - being of persons LGBTIQ+ (examp: Badgett, 2001, Cochran and others, 2003).

We encourage lawmakers and national policy makers to support the development of legal and public policies, which are in harmony with human rights, provide equal opportunities and promote safe environment for all citizens. We also express readiness to support processes of law-adjustment and policies to prevent hate, prejudice and discrimination from persons LGBTI+ and other marginalised groups in society.

Badgett, M. V. L. (2001). Money, myths, and change: The economic lives of lesbians and gay men. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press

Conger, J. J. (1975). Proceeds of the American Psychological Association, Incorporated, for the year 1974: Minutes of the international meeting of the Council of Representative. American Psychologist, 30, 620,651. Doi:10,1037/H0078455

Cochran, S. D., Sullivan, J. G., & Mays, V. 2003). Prevalence of mental designers, psychological divisions, and mental health service us among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults in the United States. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 71, 53501. Doi:10,1037/0022-006X,71.1.53