The expectation of the ex-gay teaching did not equal the results they saw. Gay participants trying to become straight through the organisation became severely depressed and attempted suicide; Marks observed that only those who accepted that they were gay and found a partner were happy and successful.
This passage describes the discrepancy between the goals of ex-gay therapy and the experiences of those participating in it. It suggests that accepting one's sexual orientation and finding a partner are more conducive to happiness and success than attempting to change one's sexual orientation.