Human Sexuality : Function, Dysfunction, Paraphilias, and Relationships

Human sexuality touches us all, pun intended. We all either enjoy it, struggle with it, or may have been victims of it. Sexuality is not just about sex, but about human sexual function, the physiology of sex, the hormones involved and how they affect us, and the cultural norms related to it. Sexual function and dysfunction are closely tied to one’s self-esteem, self-respect, and to relationships with intimate partners. Human Sexuality: Function, Dysfunction, Paraphilias, and Relationships, explores the interplay of intimacy and sexuality; how it can enhance relationships, and how it can negatively affect them, or be affected by them. When individuals or partners encounter sexual problems or dysfunctions it can have a long-lasting affect both biologically and psychologically. Dr. Rokach explores the causes and the reasons that these dysfunctions are maintained, and successful treatment methods. Chapters on sexual offenses and paraphilias and what treatment options are available to sexual offenders are also included. This book is the first book to place sexuality where it belongs, within the context of relationships demonstrating how sexuality relates to intimacy by both enhancing and negatively affecting it.

• Explains psychological, biological and sociological theories of sexuality
• Addresses sexual dysfunctions according to various models of sex therapy
• Discusses the biological, developmental and sociological theories of sexual orientation
• Explores the specific hormones in male and female sexual behavior

Ami Rokach, Ph.D. A clinical psychologist, a member of the psychology dept. at York University in Toronto. His therapeutic and research interests include loneliness, sexuality, couple & sex therapy, anxiety and phobias, traumatic experiences and personal growth, stress management, and palliative care. After 35 years of ‘doing’ psychology he is still intrigued by human nature, people’s suffering, and the real opportunity that we all have to grow, flourish, and reinvent ourselves despite obstacles and painful experiences.

Karishma Patel is an occupational therapist and researcher exploring social isolation, loneliness, and human sexuality. Her previous academic research involves examining technology acceptability and social isolation among the older adult population, exploration of loneliness and technology within the young adult population, and authoring a book which delves into the interconnectedness of sexuality and relationships.