Ex-ex-gay

An ex-ex-gay person is someone who formerly identified as ex-gay (i.e., someone who believed they had changed their sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual through conversion therapy or other means) but who has since rejected the ex-gay identity and often has returned to identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer.

The term highlights the ineffectiveness and potential harm of conversion therapy. It acknowledges that claims of successfully changing sexual orientation are often temporary or based on suppression and denial, and that individuals who once embraced the ex-gay identity may later recognize its falsity or find it detrimental to their well-being.

Becoming an ex-ex-gay can involve a process of deconstructing internalized homophobia, healing from the trauma of conversion therapy, and coming to terms with one's authentic sexual orientation. It often includes connecting with the LGBTQ+ community and building a support network.

The existence of ex-ex-gays is often cited as evidence against the validity and ethical nature of conversion therapy practices.