They bowed to pressure to conduct a review of the scientific literature, which in turn led to the decision to remove homosexuality from the diagnostic manual of mental illnesses. The long-term strategy of homosexuals was simple and effective: by "coming out," by telling people about their sexuality, they force a fundamental shift in the public's perception of homosexuality. It is much more difficult to believe that homosexuals are mentally ill if you become aware that neighbors, co-workers, friends or relatives are in this category. This happened big time in the psychiatric profession: until a certain point in time, a psychiatrist typically only encountered homosexuals in his practice. These patients were miserable, lonely, and felt deep shame at their condition and behavior; frequently homosexuals were also alcoholic or suffered from other conditions. But the activists in the early 1970s forced the psychiatric profession to confront the reality of homosexuals who were
not deeply disturbed, but instead had successful careers in the arts, medicine, in the universities, etc--and who appeared to have healthy social lives (i.e., who had close friends, long-term relationships, etc). At any rate, this is my understanding of what happened--the decision was influenced by politics but based on science.
Well, enough of this. Happy Thanksgiving!