Sexuality can be seen as a `problem' by many people being faced with media images and popular ideas of `normal' sexuality. Yet, despite critiques of sexology from authorities in psychoanalysis and feminism, sexuality is felt to be a problem for which help is sought.In Psychological Perspectives on Sexual Problems the authors critically examine theories of sexuality, but also link them with current clinical practice. Far from just addressing the sexuality of heterosexual, able-bodied individuals they also widen the horizons of psychology to look at positive, empowering practices with groups whose sexuality has often been marginalised, such as those with learning difficulties, gay men with AIDS and women with eating disorders.This book radically integrates theory and practice and will be invaluable for its positive and enabling perspectives on all sexualities.
A comprehensive, multidisciplinary and scholarly account of the determinants of human sexuality including sexual development, anatomy and physiology, biochemistry and endocrinology of sexual behaviour in addition to sociological and psychological aspects.
Although sexuality is an integral part of close romantic relationships, research linking these two constructs has been less systematic than other areas pertaining to close relationships. To date, researchers in communication, sociology, family studies, psychology, and psychiatry, have made significant advances in both of these fields. The editors' goal is to integrate this research into one volume. They bring together major scholars from the diversity of fields working on close relationship topics to examine past contributions and new directions in sexuality. The emphasis is on theoretical integration and stimulation, methodological rigor, and critical analysis. This volume explores: *early sexual experiences and their impact on late life sexuality; *how life's stresses impact sexuality and satisfaction with closeness; *the affect of postpartum depression on sexuality; and *the relationship between control, power, anger, as well as revenge and sexual processes in couples. The Handbook of Sexuality in Close Relationships is intended for students and researchers in the disciplines of social, clinical, developmental, and health psychology; family studies; counseling; and interpersonal, family, and health communication. An excellent reference in advanced courses in close relationships taught in psychology, communications, sociology, anthropology, and family studies, the material in Part V will also appeal to clinical psychologists, health professionals, and policymakers.
Destined to become a classic, this handbook chronicles the latest developments in the field of family therapy and launches a new paradigm by laying out the future agenda of the profession in terms of theoretical development, clinical practice, and family research.
Psychopathology: Foundations for a Contemporary Understanding is specifically designed to meet the needs of graduate students enrolled in a one semester course on abnormal psychology or psychopathology in master's or doctoral programs in clinical and counseling psychology and related fields such as social work. Neither an undergraduate abnormal text (though suitable for use in advanced courses that presuppose a basic abnormal course) handbook-style compendium for professionals and researchers, it synthesizes the latest knowledge about the etiology and treatment of the most important psychological disorders, and challenges students to reflect on such crucial and controversial issues as the definition of psychopathology, the influence of culture and gender, the validity of psychological testing and the viability and utility of traditional psychiatric diagnosis. The authors, all leading experts, throughout focus on what has been demonstrated by research, not on what has been claimed by theories that may be accepted or traditional but lack empirical support. The first section presents and analyzes the basic concepts we need to understand disorder; the second examines the disorders most frequently encountered in clinical practice. The editors have brought to their job a combined total of 47 years of teaching graduate students. Well-organized and clearly written, Psychopathology: Foundations for a Contemporary Understanding is an invaluable new resource for instructors and students alike.
In spite of the theoretical knowledge of diagnosis and assessment, case conceptualization, and treatment planning imparted by their course instructors, most students are confused about the interrelationships of these processes in practice and are unable to apply what they have learned to the solution of thorny client problems. This book is designed to bridge the gap between classroom and clinic. In pragmatic fashion it walks beginners through the strategies needed to work with adults in outpatient settings and answers the questions they most frequently ask their clinical supervisors at the outset of their clinical apprenticeships. Three chapters succinctly summarize the crucial general information and skills that must be reflected in a clinician's approach to any client. Then, following a standard format that facilitates understanding and comparison, experts describe specific disorders one by one and present their own illustrative cases to point the way to effective targeting. Diagnosis, Conceptualization, and Treatment Planning for Adults will be an indispensable guide for mental health professionals in training who are facing their first assignments with clients.
This literature review was undertaken in order to determine what caregivers needed to know about elderly sexuality, to determine the needs of elderly people related to their sexuality, and to determine how caregivers could best assist them in meeting those needs. In selecting materials to be annotated for this book, the first priority was given to empirical studies. Also included were articles by prominent practitioners and researchers interested in elderly sexuality, literature reviews, and books written for the lay population which are often cited in the professional literature. In addition to seeking knowledge about elderly sexuality and understanding attitudes about sexuality, this literature review sought information about measurement issues and measurement instruments frequently used in research within elderly populations. Also of interest were investigations of educational and training programs involving caregivers.
This comprehensive overview of research, issues, and theories relating to sexual orientation, behavior, and identity by experts in various disciplines is unique in providing both historical perspectives and a synthesis of the recent advances in understanding homosexuality and heterosexuality. Drawing from biological and psychological research, this major reference explores the major theories about orientation; summarizes recent developments in genetic and neuroanatomic research; considers the role of social institutions in shaping current beliefs; and discusses the social construction of gender, sexuality, and sexual identity. The handbook also describes sexual dysfunctions in ton-clinical populations, clinical disorders, and important social issues. Experts address the continuing controversy over the feasibility of altering sexual orientation; practical concerns such as disability and illness; new developments in treating sexual and personal problems within heterosexual and homosexual populations; and perspectives about sexual deviations today. This handbook is designed for the use of educators, students, and researchers in the social and behavioral sciences.