Gay Lives and 'Aversion Therapy' in Brezhnev's Russia, 1964-1982

Discover the compelling exploration of LGBTQ+ history in "Gay Lives and 'Aversion Therapy' in Brezhnev's Russia, 1964-1982" by Rustam Alexander. Published by Springer International Publishing AG in 2024, this insightful paperback spans 170 pages and delves into the personal narratives of Soviet homosexual men who experienced psychotherapy from 1970 to 1980, led by the psychiatrist-sexopathologist Yan Goland from Gorky.

Through the examination of autobiographies and diaries, Alexander sheds light on the complex realities faced by these men during a time of intense societal repression. This book not only documents their struggles but also highlights their resilience and the impact of aversion therapy on their lives. A must-read for those interested in LGBTQ+ studies, history, and psychology, this work provides a crucial understanding of a pivotal era in Russia's past.