Men and women seek different elements of intimacy. This book argues that a failure to understand the opposite gender's intimacy needs can contribute to relationship distress. Jane Ridley explores potentially critical periods and turning points in a couple's relationship, including sexuality, pregnancy, ageing, the impact of earlier separation and dealing with children from previous relationships.

Contents:

• Part One: A Working Hypothesis
• The Invisible Intimacy Screen
• Critical Periods in the Life Cycle of Relationships and Intimacy
• Life Events and Intimacy
• Part Two: A Realistic Approach to Gender
• Critical Periods and Female Vulnerablity
• Critical Periods and Male Vulnerablity

Jane Ridley, BA, PQSW was trained originally in Social Work at the London School of Economics and at the University of Newcastle and as a mature student at the Institute of Psychiatry. She began work with Michael Crowe in 1983 at the Marital and Sexual Therapy Clinics and was instrumental in developing the Course in Relationship and Sexual Therapy which now offers both an MSc and Diploma. She has developed her work within Supervision and runs training courses for advanced therapists. She has also been Chair of the Family, Marital and Sexual Section of UKCP and a member of the Governing Board of the UKCP.