Intimate Play - Softcover

Betcher, William

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0451821831 ISBN 13: 9780451821836

Publisher: Signet, 1988

Synopsis

Based on researched case histories and anecdotes, this book traces the natural course of a relationship, from initial infatuation to coping with children and grandchildren, and explores the ideas couples use to rejuvenate their feelings for each other

About this title

From Publishers Weekly

In this psychoanalytically based guide to preserving romance in marriage, Betcher, a family and marital psychotherapist in Boston, affirms that healthy playfulness, as opposed to manipulative "game-playing," not only keeps feelings fresh and stimulates creative sex, but can help to weather crises with "playful strategies." Citing case histories, he traces the role of play from courtship through marriage, parenting and retirement in helping to resolve character differences and problems. He illustrates how spontaneous play, surprises, private language, jokes, nicknames and shared fantasies can encourage acceptance of each other's foibles, and how the playful approach, properly timed, will often avoid or turn an argument into a rational discussion. While play cannot be taught, Betcher indicates the type of exercises and conditions conducive to its occurrence. Even older couples, he suggests, may find that a little playful courtship and shared activities may help to renew their romantic feelings. 30,000 first printing; first serial to Glamour; BOMC alternate; author tour.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

Betcher, a family and marital therapist, believes that established relationships need a spirit of play to retain spontaneity and attentiveness. Intimate playfulness not only invites collaboration but is a diplomatic way of touching the truth. Offering safe and practical suggestions for healthy regression and flexible role exchange, Betcher shows how idiosyncratic love can be expressed through whimsy and dalliance as long as there is empathy, proper timing, and privacy. Betcher's conclusions are based on an impressive number and variety of compelling anecdotal materials, with commentary, gathered through the author's clinical practice and by anonymous questionnaires. Perhaps the best popular manual of the year on marital adaptation and enrichment. Highly recommended. William Abrams, Portland State Univ. Lib., Ore.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Signet
• Publication date: 1988
• ISBN 10: 0451821831
• ISBN 13: 9780451821836
• Binding: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 384