[WATCH] Malta Chamber of Psychologists slams 'ex-gay' claims made on Xarabank

Persons should not be made to believe that they can change their orientation, Psychologists' body says in response to 'ex-gay' guests on Xarabank on Friday claiming that they had turned their back on practicing gay relationships
 

Self-proclaimed 'ex-gay' Kylie Vella and Matthew Grech tell Xarabank presenter Peppi Azzopardi that they have been attacked for their views
Self-proclaimed 'ex-gay' Kylie Vella and Matthew Grech tell Xarabank presenter Peppi Azzopardi that they have been attacked for their views

The Malta Chamber of Psychologists (MCP) reiterated that LBTIQ persons are not abnormal and that there's no proof to say that homosexuality is a pathology or psychological disorder.

READ MORE: Psychologists' Body takes on X Factor's 'ex-gay' singer: 'no such thing as homosexual disorder'

MCP was commenting on the latest episode of Xarabank, featuring two self-proclaimed 'ex-gay' individuals Matthew Grech of X Factor fame and Kylie Delia.

"We would like to stress once again that homosexuality is not a pathology, mental anomaly or psychological disorder, which deems any form of transformation or curing," the chamber said.

In a statement, the MCP quoted scientific research that suggested that homosexuality could be traced back to genetic and brain-based origins, even as early as neonatal foetal development.

"We further confirm that LGBTIQ persons should not be made to believe that they can change their orientation; they are nonetheless free to live and enjoy whichever form of sexual or asexual relationships they choose in their lives without prejudice."

Both 'ex-gay' guests on Xarabank claimed that they turned their back on homosexuality because they endorsed the "word of Christ." Grech said on the programme that sexuality was something fluid and liable to change. "The legal amendments of 2016 imposed everyone to recognise that sex is fixed and cannot change. Where are the rights of people who seek help with something they no longer want to embrace?"

Gay conversion therapy was criminalised in 2016.

He also said live on air that the MCP had indirectly accused him of internalised homophobia while he told presenter Peppi Azzopardi that he was practicing a straight lifestyle and no longer experienced "gay feelings."

In their statement released on Monday, the MCP said that people do not fit into neat dichotomies. "Human nature is not an all-or-nothing phenomenon. As a professional body, we once again promote respect and equality for all persons... we further reiterate that evidence shows that spirituality is an integral dimension of one's wellbeing."