Homosexuality

Abstract

The current aspects of homosexuality in the light of medical, psychological, psychoanalytical and sociopsychological research are presented. The history of studies concerned with this subject, the prevalence and types of homosexuality, the technique of the homosexual act, the psychological involvements of homosexual relationships and the legal position of homosexuality are dealt with. Of the various theories accounting for homosexuality, the Freudian concept of psychoanalysis and the contemporary sociopsychological and existentialist views are discussed. It is emphasized that in the light of these studies the problems of homosexuality are inseparable from those of the patterns of human psychosexual development and that homosexuality is deeply rooted in interdictions and repressions of heterosexual tendencies ingrained in the personality during its emotional development in the period of childhood. Problems of treatment are presented with reference to pertinent data from the literature. The necessity for further research is stressed. In view of the scarcity of psychiatrists trained in the management of homosexuals, a reserved attitude is recommended to the medical profession in respect of the practical tasks involved by homosexuality.