Conversations about Psychology and Sexual Orientation

Based on the belief that thoughtful dialogue can engender positive change, this work explores the implications for psychology of both essentialist and social-constructionist understandings of sexual orientation. An introduction presenting basic theoretical frameworks is followed by three application sections dealing with clinical practice, research and theory, and public policy. In each, the discussion takes the form of a conversation, as the authors first consider essentialist and constructionist approaches to the topic under review. Scholars chosen for their particular fields of expertise then present their reponses to these thoughts.