In its comprehensive 138-page report released on Wednesday, the Washington-based American Psychological Association has concluded that there is no evidence to substantiate the benefits of the so-called 'reparative therapy' in bringing about a change in the sexual orientation of gays, lesbians and heterosexuals.

Accompanying the report was a resolution - adopted by the psychologists' association by a 125-4 vote - reiterating that there is no concrete evidence to prove that making gays 'straight' is likely. Rather, it said that efforts to change in a person's sexual orientation may go more harm than good - inducing depression and suicidal tendencies.

The results of the report - which covered 87 peer-reviewed studies since 1960 - have been endorsed by the association's governing council in Toronto, Canada, where the annual meeting of the association is being held this weekend.

Referring on the report, Judith Glassgold - a psychologist in Highland Park, New Jersey, and the Chairwoman of the psychologists' panel - said that the document may be an eye-opener for both the religious conservatives who think that changing sexual orientation is possible, as well as the mental health professionals who opine otherwise.

Glassgold said: "Both sides have to educate themselves better. The religious psychotherapists have to open up their eyes to the potential positive aspects of being gay or lesbian. Secular therapists have to recognize that some people will choose their faith over their sexuality."