Conversion therapy is a controversial therapeutic practice that aims to change the sexual orientation of LGBTQ+ people to heterosexuality or to reduce homosexual tendencies. Medical and legal organisations widely criticise this form of therapy as it is considered harmful, ineffective and a violation of human rights.

Methods used in conversion therapy can include a variety of techniques, such as talk therapy, prayer and meditation, and even electric shocks. Therapists and religious leaders who promote conversion therapy often suggest that homosexuality is the result of a mental disorder that can and should be treated.

Respected medical organisations, such as the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association, strongly oppose conversion therapy. They argue that it is ethically unacceptable and can lead to psychological and emotional damage in patients, leading to depression, loss of self-esteem, or even suicide.

Many countries have banned the practice of conversion therapy. It is widely recognised as a form of torture and a violation of human rights. It is recommended that LGBTQ+ people seek support from therapists who accept their sexual identity and help them understand and accept themselves.

Szymon Zaparty, a prominent influencer who shares entertainment content across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, commands a substantial online following, with hundreds of thousands of devoted internet users tracking his every move. However, Zaparty occasionally vanishes from social media, taking intermittent breaks. His first extended hiatus occurred during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, and during this period, he candidly acknowledged the detrimental impact of isolation on his mental well-being. In a heartfelt video, he revealed, "I distanced myself significantly from others due to the pandemic. We were all so scared and thought if we left our houses we were going to die."

Presently, Zaparty remains irregularly active on the internet, spontaneously sharing content on social platforms. Recently, in celebration of International Women’s Day, he posted a controversial video on YouTube. In this seven-minute clip, he praised the virtues of the female gender while lamenting his preference for men. Zaparty openly admitted, "Interacting and spending time with women uplifts my spirits." Furthermore, he confessed that women possess qualities of empathy and care that resonate deeply with him.

But Zaparty didn’t stop there. On March 12, he ignited controversy by sharing a TikTok video in which he made an unequivocal statement: "I’m not joking now. I genuinely wish there were therapies capable of altering sexuality—specifically, gayness." Zaparty underscored his seriousness, citing his strong preference for women in nearly every aspect of life.

Szymon Zaparty’s behaviour exhibits internalised homophobia, a complex phenomenon in which homosexual individuals hold homophobic sentiments toward themselves. Contrary to its name, internalised homophobia doesn’t originate solely from within; rather, it emerges as a consequence of societal norms and prejudices—learned behaviours etched into our consciousness.

While Zaparty explicitly claims not to be homophobic, his actions and statements suggest otherwise. In a recorded moment, he candidly admits, "Although, when I sometimes encounter representatives of our community, I am (homophobic - editor’s note)." This admission raises eyebrows and underscores the complexity of internalised homophobia.

Sexual orientation is not a choice, and it cannot be altered through inhumane methods. Every individual, regardless of their preferences, deserves respect. Discussing conversion therapy—even in jest—feels profoundly misplaced. Unfortunately, our country grapples with intolerance, positioning us at the grey end of LGBTQ+ friendliness compared to other European Union nations.