American College of Pediatricians

American College of Pediatricians (ACPeds)

The American College of Pediatricians (ACPeds) is a socially conservative advocacy group of pediatricians and other healthcare professionals based in the United States. Founded in 2002, ACPeds positions itself as an alternative to the larger and more established American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), particularly on issues related to family structure, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The group's advocacy focuses on opposition to abortion, objections to the adoption of children by gay or lesbian couples, and support for conversion therapy.

History

ACPeds was established in 2002 by a group of pediatricians, including former AAP members, who were concerned with the AAP's support for adoption by gay and lesbian individuals. The organization aimed to create a platform for healthcare professionals who shared a traditional view on family and child-rearing practices.

Membership

Initially, ACPeds had between 150 and 200 members and operated with one employee. By 2016, the organization reported having 500 physician members. Despite this growth, ACPeds remains significantly smaller than the AAP, which has a membership in the tens of thousands.

Advocacy

ACPeds' primary advocacy efforts include:

• Opposing abortion and supporting alternatives such as adoption (excluding by gay or lesbian individuals) and foster care.
• Advocating against the adoption of children by same-sex couples, arguing that children benefit most from being raised in homes with married heterosexual parents.
• Supporting conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ youth, a practice that has been widely discredited and condemned by major medical and psychological associations, including the APA and AAP, due to its potential to cause harm.

Controversies

ACPeds has been the subject of controversy and criticism from mainstream medical organizations. Critics argue that the group's positions are based more on ideology than scientific evidence, particularly in relation to its stance on LGBTQ+ issues. ACPeds has been described by some as a fringe group that politicizes pediatric care.

Position Statements

ACPeds publishes position statements on various topics, including:

• Family structure and the well-being of children
• Gender dysphoria in children
• Sexual orientation and adolescents

These positions often contrast with the consensus views of larger medical organizations.

External Links

• American College of Pediatricians - Official Website

References

• Health Care Professionals and the Equality Act: A Consensus Statement from the American College of Pediatricians and Allied Organizations
• The Role of the Pediatrician in Primary Prevention of Child Maltreatment by ACPeds

American College of Pediatricians Resources
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