The Handbook of Sexuality in Close Relationships

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.

John H. Harvey, Amy Wenzel, Susan Sprecher

Contents: J.H. Harvey, A. Wenzel, S. Sprecher, Introduction. Part I: Introduction.J. DeLamater, J.S. Hyde, Conceptual and Theoretical Issues in Studying Sexuality in Close Relationships. M.W. Wiederman, Methodological Issues in Studying Sexuality in Close Relationships. M.C. Willetts, S. Sprecher, F.D. Beck, Overview of Sexual Practices and Attitudes Within Relational Contexts. J.A. Simpson, C.L. Wilson, H.A. Winterheld, Sociosexuality and Romantic Relationships. Part II: Role of Sexuality in the Formation, Development, and Maintenance of Close Relationships.P.C. Regan, Sex and the Attraction Process: Lessons From Science (and Shakespeare) on Lust, Love, Chastity, and Fidelity. S. Metts, First Sexual Involvement in Romantic Relationships: An Empirical Investigation of Communicative Framing, Romantic Beliefs, and Attachment Orientation in the Passion Turning Point. C. Hendrick, S.S. Hendrick, Sex and Romantic Love: Connects and Disconnects. J.A. Feeney, P. Noller, Attachment and Sexuality in Close Relationships. E.S. Byers, A. Wang, Understanding Sexuality in Close Relationships From the Social Exchange Perspective. S. Sprecher, R.M. Cate, Sexual Satisfaction and Sexual Expression as Predictors of Relationship Satisfaction and Stability. Part III: The Dark Side of Sex.W.R. Cupach, B.H. Spitzberg, Unrequited Lust. F.S. Christopher, T.S. Kisler, Sexual Aggression in Romantic Relationships. L.K. Guerrero, B.H. Spitzberg, S.M. Yoshimura, Sexual and Emotional Jealousy. Part IV:Sexuality in Special Types of Couples and Contexts.L.A. Peplau, A. Fingerhut, K.P. Beals, Sexuality in the Relationships of Lesbians and Gay Men. F.S. Christopher, T.S. Kisler, Exploring Marital Sexuality: Peeking Inside the Bedroom and Discovering What We Don't Know--But Should! T.D. Fisher, Family Foundations of Sexuality. E.N. Haugen, P.A. Schmutzer, A. Wenzel, Sexuality and the Partner Relationship During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period. E.O. Burgess, Sexuality in Midlife and Later Life Couples. K.D. Vohs, K.R. Catanese, R.F. Baumeister, Sex in "His" vs. "Her" Relationships. Part V:Applications and Clinical Aspects.S. Aubin, J.R. Heiman, Sexual Dysfunction From a Relationship Perspective. S.M. Noar, R.S. Zimmerman, K.A. Atwood, Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections From a Relationship Perspective. A. Wenzel, L.C. Jackson, J.R. Brendle, Psychopathology, Sexuality, and the Partner Relationship. B.W. McCarthy, L.E. Bodnar, M. Handal, Integrating Sex Therapy and Couple Therapy. P. Schwartz, D. Perlman, S. Campbell, Commentaries.