Attitudes To Homosexuality (Press, 17 March 1961)

A report by the Wellington branch of the National Council of Women, presented to their Christchurch counterparts on 17 March 1961, addresses the complex relationship between homosexuality and the medical, psychiatric, and legal frameworks in New Zealand. Prepared by the branch's moral welfare sub-committee and endorsed by Dr. Dor's Odium, a co-founder of the World Federation of Mental Health, the report advocates for a significant shift in how society perceives and treats homosexuality. The report draws parallels between the legal treatment of homosexuality and alcoholism. It argues that imprisonment is an ineffective solution for homosexual behaviour, similar to sending an alcoholic to a brewery. The report contends that societal factors contribute to the development of latent homosexual tendencies and that such tendencies should not be criminalised. The report identifies various extra-marital relationships, noting that only homosexual relations between men are legally punishable. Key causes of homosexuality are categorised into physical, emotional, and social factors. It suggests that all individuals possess latent sexual characteristics of opposite genders, and certain unsatisfactory relationships in childhood may lead to a dislike of women, ultimately influencing sexual orientation. The report asserts that many cases of arrested emotional and physical development necessitate clinical treatment. In addition, the report discusses the implications of women's increasing participation in the workforce, suggesting that this social change could disrupt traditional customs in ways that society has yet to fully comprehend. The authors of the report argue that traditional punitive measures against homosexuality have historically been ineffective, offering little success in rehabilitating individuals or safeguarding public order. They emphasise that homosexuality should not be viewed strictly as a moral failing but rather as a condition influenced by various uncontrollable factors. The council recommends that the government be urged to establish a body of investigation to study the incidence and treatment of homosexuality, advocating for a reclassification of homosexuality as a physical and emotional disorder instead of a criminal offence. Additionally, the report draws a contrast with alcoholism, which is treated as a disease that requires understanding and clinical intervention rather than punishment. The authors clarify that while the recommendation does not aim to condone homosexuality, it seeks to promote more effective treatment methods focused on voluntary clinical help and education.

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