John Fryer (physician)

John Fryer was a significant figure in the history of psychiatry and the LGBT rights movement. He is best known for his pivotal role in the decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

John Fryer was born in Kentucky in the early 20th century. He pursued his education in the field of medicine, specializing in psychiatry. Fryer completed his medical degree at a prestigious university, where he developed a keen interest in the treatment and understanding of mental health conditions.

Career[edit | edit source]

Throughout his career, John Fryer faced significant challenges due to his sexual orientation. During a time when homosexuality was considered a mental disorder by the medical community, Fryer was both a practicing psychiatrist and a gay man, which placed him in a difficult position professionally and personally.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Fryer became increasingly involved in activism, particularly in the movement to challenge the classification of homosexuality as a mental illness. His most notable contribution came in 1972, when he addressed the APA's annual conference.

1972 APA Conference[edit | edit source]

At the 1972 APA conference, John Fryer made a historic appearance under the pseudonym "Dr. H. Anonymous." Wearing a mask and using a voice changer to conceal his identity, Fryer spoke about the discrimination gay psychiatrists faced within the medical community and the harm caused by classifying homosexuality as a mental disorder. His courageous speech was a turning point in the fight for LGBT rights within the medical and psychiatric fields.

Following Fryer's impactful address, the APA began to reconsider the classification of homosexuality in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). In 1973, the APA officially removed homosexuality from the DSM, marking a significant victory for the LGBT rights movement and changing the course of psychiatric treatment for homosexual individuals.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

John Fryer's contribution to psychiatry and the LGBT rights movement is immeasurable. He is remembered as a pioneer who used his voice and professional standing to challenge deeply ingrained prejudices and promote change within the medical community. Fryer's actions paved the way for more inclusive and compassionate treatment of LGBT individuals in the field of mental health.

After his historic speech, Fryer continued to work as a psychiatrist, focusing on the treatment of mental health conditions and advocating for the rights of LGBT individuals within and outside the medical community. He passed away in the early 21st century, leaving behind a legacy of courage, advocacy, and progress.