Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #84523 in Books
• Published on: 2001-04-07
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 240 pages

Synopsis
With detailed descriptions of the four stages of sexual addiction, the author outlines the dynamics of dependency and offers evaluation methods and solutions. The text addresses issues relating to behaviour, cultural standards, legal consequences, the victim, and public opinion.

Customer Reviews

I thought I was alone - but I wasn't - there were others!
This book is truly a revelation - from the very beginning it makes the reader face up to the true nature of sex addiction - and to discover whether or not they are an addict. It not only shows the outward signs of addiction (and their inevitable disastrous results) but goes beneath the surface to show the underlying core beliefs that support and reinforce the addiction.

Using true to life stories (an amalgam of others experiences) it leads the addict through a gentle path of understanding through to ways of moving forward to healing.

In addition to the addict themselves, it casts light on the role of the "co-dependent" - (this can be partner, spouse, parent or any other family member whose life has been bound up to that of the addict) and explains in simple language how this has occurred and what to do about it.

One small complaint about the writing style is that there are some dull clinical parts - the author is, after all a clinician - and it does become a bit repetitive at times.

Having said that, if you feel you might be a sex-addict or in a close bond with one, then this is a great starting point for healing the addiction and the co-dependency.

Thank you for reading this review, I hope you find it helpful and true to the book when you read it for yourself.

Carnes is able to get right inside the addicts head.
Carnes has completely captured the mind of the sexual addict in minute detail. Disecting each and every action and thought explaining the reasons for and behind the behavior. For 22 years I lived and was married to a sexual addict and didn't know. I was in total denial. Finding out was the biggest shock and not knowing what to do. I was fortunate enough to be told about Patrick Carnes' book. I purchased the book online (so I wouldn't suffer the embarrassment of asking for it in a bookstore) and couldn't put it down. To be able to understand in a small way the "why" of my husbands behavior allows me to not feel so guilty or in some way responsible for his behavior. I never thought a book on this subject could be called fascinating--but it is just that. Each and every paragraph had something in it that hit home. He completely is able to analyze this behavior and explain the reasons without making the addict or co-addict feel less of a person. Although my husband and I are separated, I plan on passing this book on to him as he feels he can't beat this addiction. I am hoping this book will help him as it did me, to understand.

Partners of Addicts can benefit from this book!
Sexual addiction has a profound impact on the partners and families of the addict. The road to recovery is a long hard journey as Dr. Carnes points out. For the partner of an addict, this book helps you understand that what you've been living with is NOT about you. You come to realize that this is a disease just as alcoholism is a disease. You learn what it's about, how it can progress if not treated and how recovery is a possibility. You also learn about co-addiction and the role you play in this insidious addiction. This book was a lifesaver for me and put me on the road to recovery from my own co-addiction.