Chemical Dependency and Intimacy Dysfunction

Experts in the fields of chemical dependence and human sexuality provide answers to pressing questions regarding the relationship between chemical dependency and intimacy dysfunction and treatment for individuals and families. Because many chemical dependency professionals are unaware of intimacy problems, are unwilling to discuss them, or have not received sufficient training to evaluate and treat the problems, this book provides professionals with information and skills to deal with intimacy dysfunction issues with the hope of improving treatment and rehabilitation of chemically dependent individuals and their families.

The failure to deal with social-sexual issues may impair the progress of recovery in a chemically dependent individual and his or her family. The failure to deal with sexual compulsivity in intravenous drug abusers may seriously impair our ability to deal with AIDS. The failure to deal with chemical dependence may render family therapy ineffective in the treatment of sex offenders.

Despite the connection between chemical dependency and intimacy dysfunction, the intimacy concerns are rarely recognized in the diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare of the chemically dependent person and his or family. In this pioneering work, experts in the fields of chemical dependence and human sexuality provide professionals with information and skills to deal with intimacy dysfunction issues--offering hope for improving treatment and rehabilitation of chemically dependent individuals and their families. Typical intimacy dysfunctions are explored, as well as treatment methods and strategies that have proven to be effective. A valuable resource guide, this comprehensive volume addresses the key issues in the multidisciplinary approach to the study of chemical dependency and intimacy dysfunction.