A Couple's Guide to Sexual Addiction: A Step-by-Step Plan to Rebuild Trust and Restore Intimacy

by Paldrom Catharine Collins, George Collins

Like other psychiatric disorders, sexual addiction is a condition that affects peoples' relationships with others as much as it affects their own mental state. Individuals suffering from sexual addiction typically pursue sex through any means possible and often engage in risky forms of sexual activity such as exhibitionism, promiscuous sex with multiple partners, online sex, etc. It's easy to see how a couple's relationship may be challenged by the manifestations and reality of a disorder like this one.

"A Couple's Guide to Sexual Addiction" discusses common relationship issues within the context of sexual addiction and provides the reader with exercises, information, and advice on the following topics: TrustCommunicationHealthy sexuality & sexual behaviorsFamily By understanding the reality of sexual addiction and what it means for a relationship, couples will be able to better relate to each other and plan for a successful future.

256 pages, Paperback

First published December 18, 2011

Reviews

[Analie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Compulsions are to avoid fear, pain, and anger." This book contains many nuggets of good information like that that clarify what causes sexual addiction and how couples can heal. It validates the shock and betrayal partners feel and covers how to re-establish trust and work with shame, blame, and strong feelings, giving exercises couples can try. However, I was surprised that in chapter three, the authors recommend professional help only for couples who have a partner dealing with legal consequences of their actions. Support groups, etc. are also only mentioned as an addendum at the very end of the book instead of being emphasized as a tool for recovery through the entire process.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve come across that does not have religious tones to it. I cannot wait for my husband to read it so we can do some of the exercises and continue rebuilding trust and intimacy. This is something he won’t turn away from because it is a very clinical view and approach to changing your situation.

[Wintermote · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sound advice but I have trouble believing addicts can do this work (or the betrayed partner) without a therapist or support group. Though these WERE highlighted near the end of the book, I think there should’ve been more of an emphasis on those as essential earlier in the book. Otherwise addicts will continue to lie and manipulate their “recovery” without truly be in recovery.

[Rena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very encouraging book that I really enjoyed and ordered in print because I want to be able to work through it better. I like the way this author outlines things to do.