Monogamy: The Untold Story

Monogamy: The Untold Story

by Marianne Brandon Ph.D
Monogamy: The Untold Story

Monogamy: The Untold Story

by Marianne Brandon Ph.D

Hardcover

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Overview

This text provides a groundbreaking look at sexual instincts and offers a clinical psychologist's and sex therapist's insights and solutions to the challenges of monogamous relationships.

Monogamous relationships are firmly embedded in the framework of our society, and yet the divorce rate and common failures of intimacy in long-term relationships challenges the efficacy of this paradigm. Oddly, the concept of monogamy has been virtually ignored by mental health professionals, while anthropologists, sociologists, biologists, and zoologists have researched and explored the topic.

Monogamy: The Untold Story presents not only the scientific research about the challenges of monogamy, but also the practical solutions to overcome them. In part one, the author explores sexual instincts and monogamy from an anthropological, biological, psychological, and social perspective. Part two offers men and women a step-by-step guide to enhancing passion and strengthening their intimate bond by capitalizing on their natural sexual instincts.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9780313385735
Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date: 08/19/2010
Series: Sex, Love, and Psychology
Pages: 182
Product dimensions: 6.20(w) x 9.30(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Marianne Brandon, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, sex therapist, and director of Wellminds Wellbodies, LLC, in Annapolis, MD.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Series Foreword by Dr. Judy Kuriansky
Introduction
PART I THE TRUTH ABOUT MONOGAMY
1. The Monogamy Illusion
2. How Childhood Relationships Affect Adult Sexuality
3. The Human Sexual Animal: How Our Brains and Biology Affect Intimacy
4. Passionate Pack Animals: Making Your Instincts Work for You
5. Social Evolution Means Sexual Revolution
PART II PASSIONATE MONOGAMY
6. Unleashing Aphrodite: Female Ecstasy via Her Primal Nature
7. Be Your Best Man: Advice for Him (and Her)
8. Rethinking Cultural Norms: Creative Alternatives to Enhancing Sexual Chemistry
9. Making Love: Succulent Monogamy
10. Homework for Better Sex
Conclusion
Notes
Index

What People are Saying About This

David P. Barash

"When it comes to human sexuality, most books offer either technical, scientific information without practical suggestions, or 'how-to' advice without much underlying substance. 'Monogamy' is a refreshing and much-needed exception: intellectually substantial as well as down-to-earth useful. Engaging, provocative, accurate, and imaginative, Marianne Brandon’s book will enhance your understanding as well as your love life."

Aline P. Zoldbrod

"Dr. Marianne Brandon's Monogamy: The Untold Story shines a bright, new light on the age old problem of how to feel sexual passion in an ongoing sexual relationship. Monogamy contains some startling insights. Dr. Brandon explodes the myth that monogamy should be easy if you're with the 'right person'. Both thoughtful and quirky, she asks us to ask ourselves some very interesting, deep, and thought-provoking questions about our own sexuality. Hers is a strong and unusual voice. In language at times scientific, other times erotic, Dr. Brandon reminds us that our biology works against us. We must learn to feel pleasure in ongoing, monogamous unions. And she teaches us how, with great exercises and wonderful advice. By pointing out the problems with monogamy and offering unique and creative solutions, Dr. Brandon does us all a great service. I highly recommend Monogamy."

Tammy Nelson

"Dr. Brandon's book on Monogamy is packed with great information on how to keep a marriage or committed partnership alive. She gives direct and practical advice without talking down to her reader. She gives a fair analysis of the social limitations of marriage as it stands and then gives couples some invaluable creative alternatives to enhance their chemistry. She lays out the options in a clear way and explains who is a good candidate for them. I think the book is timely and should be read by anyone looking to make a long term partnership last."

Tammy Nelson, PhD, author of Getting the Sex You Want

Rachel Herz

"An erudite and juicy guide to understanding the paradoxes of our biology, and achieving the perfect combination of a loving and sexually passionate marriage."

Rachel Herz, PhD, author of The Scent of Desire

Dr. Susan Kellogg Spadt

"In Monogamy: The Untold Story Dr. Brandon distills complex concepts about relationships and sexuality from the fields of anthropology, sociology an psychology and presents them in a clear and easy to understand format. She guides the reader on a jouney of reconnection with their sensory experiences and to an appreciation of the important relationship between love of oneself and love of a partner. A 'must-read' for couples interested in attaining or maintaining sexual vitality."

David C. Geary

"Brandon's Monogamy: The Untold Story is a much needed book that addresses the realities of our biological heritage and the expectations of our culture in a refreshing and forthright manner. The seamless fusion of science and practice make for a lucid and pleasurable read. This is a book for anyone who wants a deep understanding of monogamy and sound advice on how to make it work better for them."

David C. Geary, Ph.D., author of Male, Female: The Evolution of Human Sex differences

Irwin Goldstein

"Monogamy is an informative and thought-provoking look at modern sexuality. Author Marianne Brandon helps the reader explore the origins of monogamy and the push and pull of our sexual instincts versus contemporary Western culture to ultimately learn to love more fully."

Irwin Goldstein, MD, Director of Sexual Medicine, Alvarado Hospital

Andrew T. Goldstein

"Wow! Dr. Brandon has thoroughly dissected the foundation, concepts, and components of monogamy in this terrific new book. In so doing, she gives us tools to remain (or become again) passionately monogamous. This book must be on the bookshelf of every therapist and should be required reading for any couple contemplating marriage."

Stephen L. Braveman

"Brilliantly written! In this easy to read, easy to use, guide couples will find ways to rejoice in monogamy despite incredible odds. Packed with sound, useful and inspiring exercises, Marianne Brandon combines the best of human experiential knowledge, scientific research and years of her own professional experience. A clear path to celebrating respectful, sexual ecstasy within the confines of a committed relationship is offered in such a palatable manner that readers will want to share this book with their friends and family. Clinicians will also want to add it to their library as a useful reference guide; finding both superb ways to challenge beliefs that humans are 'naturally hard-wired for monogamy' and when seeking practical homework assignments for their clients. I will definitely make this book a required reading for my students and interns as well!"

Stephen L. Braveman, LMFT, DST, author of CPR for your Sex Life: How to Breathe Life Into a Dead, Dying or Dull Sex Life

Frans de Waal

"Monogamy is far from obvious. Even most pair-bonding species regularly deviate from its unwritten rules. Marianne Brandon gives us an honest look at the pleasures and problems of an ideal that humans seem only partially hard-wired to reach."

Alan M. Altman MD

"Monogamy: The Untold Story is a groundbreaking book that should be read by anyone who is, or has been, married, as well as anyone whose business it is to counsel married couples. Brandon’s elucidation of where we have been and where we’re headed will prove to be the seminal guidebook for this vital sector of our culture. Her mastery of evolutionary biology and the contradiction of political correctness in the bedroom, combines to paint a clear picture of what can be done to reset the course towards 'succulent monogamy'. You need to read this book."

David P. Barash

"When it comes to human sexuality, most books offer either technical, scientific information without practical suggestions, or 'how-to' advice without much underlying substance. 'Monogamy' is a refreshing and much-needed exception: intellectually substantial as well as down-to-earth useful. Engaging, provocative, accurate, and imaginative, Marianne Brandon's book will enhance your understanding as well as your love life."

David P. Barash, Professor of Psychology, University of Washington, and author of Strange Bedfellows: the surprising connection between sex, evolution and monogamy

Aline P. Zoldbrod

"Dr. Marianne Brandon's Monogamy: The Untold Story shines a bright, new light on the age old problem of how to feel sexual passion in an ongoing sexual relationship. Monogamy contains some startling insights. Dr. Brandon explodes the myth that monogamy should be easy if you're with the 'right person'. Both thoughtful and quirky, she asks us to ask ourselves some very interesting, deep, and thought-provoking questions about our own sexuality. Hers is a strong and unusual voice. In language at times scientific, other times erotic, Dr. Brandon reminds us that our biology works against us. We must learn to feel pleasure in ongoing, monogamous unions. And she teaches us how, with great exercises and wonderful advice. By pointing out the problems with monogamy and offering unique and creative solutions, Dr. Brandon does us all a great service. I highly recommend Monogamy."

Aline P. Zoldbrod, PhD, certified sex therapist; faculty, University of Michigan Sexual Health Certificate Program; author, SexSmart: How Your Childhood Shapes Your Sexual Life and What to Do About It

Alan M. Altman MD

"Monogamy: The Untold Story is a groundbreaking book that should be read by anyone who is, or has been, married, as well as anyone whose business it is to counsel married couples. Brandon's elucidation of where we have been and where we're headed will prove to be the seminal guidebook for this vital sector of our culture. Her mastery of evolutionary biology and the contradiction of political correctness in the bedroom, combines to paint a clear picture of what can be done to reset the course towards 'succulent monogamy'. You need to read this book."

Alan M. Altman MD, President, International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH);

Formerly Assistant Professor Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School;

Consultative Gynecologist: Menopause and Female Sexual Dysfunction, Aspen, CO

Frans de Waal

"Monogamy is far from obvious. Even most pair-bonding species regularly deviate from its unwritten rules. Marianne Brandon gives us an honest look at the pleasures and problems of an ideal that humans seem only partially hard-wired to reach."

Frans de Waal, PhD, author of The Age of Empathy

Stephen L. Braveman

"Brilliantly written! In this easy to read, easy to use, guide couples will find ways to rejoice in monogamy despite incredible odds. Packed with sound, useful and inspiring exercises, Marianne Brandon combines the best of human experiential knowledge, scientific research and years of her own professional experience. A clear path to celebrating respectful, sexual ecstasy within the confines of a committed relationship is offered in such a palatable manner that readers will want to share this book with their friends and family. Clinicians will also want to add it to their library as a useful reference guide; finding both superb ways to challenge beliefs that humans are 'naturally hard-wired for monogamy' and when seeking practical homework assignments for their clients. I will definitely make this book a required reading for my students and interns as well!"

Dr. Susan Kellogg Spadt

"In Monogamy: The Untold Story Dr. Brandon distills complex concepts about relationships and sexuality from the fields of anthropology, sociology an psychology and presents them in a clear and easy to understand format. She guides the reader on a jouney of reconnection with their sensory experiences and to an appreciation of the important relationship between love of oneself and love of a partner. A 'must-read' for couples interested in attaining or maintaining sexual vitality."

Dr. Susan Kellogg Spadt, PHD CRNP, Drexel University College of Medicine and Widener University College of Human Service Professions

Andrew T. Goldstein

"Wow! Dr. Brandon has thoroughly dissected the foundation, concepts, and components of monogamy in this terrific new book. In so doing, she gives us tools to remain (or become again) passionately monogamous. This book must be on the bookshelf of every therapist and should be required reading for any couple contemplating marriage."

Andrew T. Goldstein, MD, FACOG, President Elect, The International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health; Associate Editor, The Journal of Sexual Medicine; Co-founder, The Sexual Wellness Center

Curt R. Bergstrand

"Dr. Brandon's book is a gem – for the serious scholar exploring the psychological foundations of love and attraction as well as for the lay reader who is committed to making monogamy work in their lives. A comprehensive review of theories of childhood socialization is seamlessly integrated into explanations not only of why we fall in love but who we fall in love with. Detailed strategies for couples to use in enhancing their relationship are provided in a well-written and highly readable format for readers at all levels of expertise. Highly recommended for therapists, social scientists, teachers of human sexuality and marriage/family courses, and the lay reader looking to understand their own love maps."

Curt R. Bergstrand, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Sociology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, KY

Irwin Goldstein

"Monogamy is an informative and thought-provoking look at modern sexuality. Author Marianne Brandon helps the reader explore the origins of monogamy and the push and pull of our sexual instincts versus contemporary Western culture to ultimately learn to love more fully."

Tammy Nelson

"Dr. Brandon's book on Monogamy is packed with great information on how to keep a marriage or committed partnership alive. She gives direct and practical advice without talking down to her reader. She gives a fair analysis of the social limitations of marriage as it stands and then gives couples some invaluable creative alternatives to enhance their chemistry. She lays out the options in a clear way and explains who is a good candidate for them. I think the book is timely and should be read by anyone looking to make a long term partnership last."

Yvonne K. Fulbright

"Brandon does a masterful job taking on unsupported hypotheses, misguided ideas, and old-fashioned notions on monogamy for a nice reality check on where 'together forever' stands today. Well-researched, intelligent, and holistic, Brandon makes a massive topic accessible and applicable to professionals and the public alike. Readers seeking to bolster their monogamous efforts will feel empowered with the easy-to-follow exercises, as well as inspired by Brandon's wisdom, thoughtfulness, and hope in making love magical over the long-haul."

Yvonne K. Fulbright, PhD, MSEd, Sexologist, sexuality educator, author; founder of sexualitysource.com and sensualfusion.com

Julian Slowinski

"Marianne Brandon knows the truth about the challenges facing monogamy in a changing world. Biological, psychological, and cultural norms often work against the concept and practice of monogamy. In Monagomy: The Untold Story, she begins by not taking lifelong relationships for granted, and honestly and fearlessly explores the forces working against monogamy. Ever the gifted clinician, she moves on to outline practical steps for couples to take to free and sustain themselves towards mature sexuality and deeper intimacy. The book is a gift to professionals and lay readers from a thoughtful and reality based therapist."

Julian Slowinski, PsyD, ABPP, Senior Clinical Psychologist, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and co-author, The Sexual Male

Curt R. Bergstrand

"Dr. Brandon’s book is a gem – for the serious scholar exploring the psychological foundations of love and attraction as well as for the lay reader who is committed to making monogamy work in their lives. A comprehensive review of theories of childhood socialization is seamlessly integrated into explanations not only of why we fall in love but who we fall in love with. Detailed strategies for couples to use in enhancing their relationship are provided in a well-written and highly readable format for readers at all levels of expertise. Highly recommended for therapists, social scientists, teachers of human sexuality and marriage/family courses, and the lay reader looking to understand their own love maps."

Rachel Herz

“An erudite and juicy guide to understanding the paradoxes of our biology, and achieving the perfect combination of a loving and sexually passionate marriage.”

David C. Geary

“Brandon’s Monogamy: The Untold Story is a much needed book that addresses the realities of our biological heritage and the expectations of our culture in a refreshing and forthright manner. The seamless fusion of science and practice make for a lucid and pleasurable read. This is a book for anyone who wants a deep understanding of monogamy and sound advice on how to make it work better for them.”

Julian Slowinski

"Marianne Brandon knows the truth about the challenges facing monogamy in a changing world. Biological, psychological, and cultural norms often work against the concept and practice of monogamy. In Monagomy: The Untold Story, she begins by not taking lifelong relationships for granted, and honestly and fearlessly explores the forces working against monogamy. Ever the gifted clinician, she moves on to outline practical steps for couples to take to free and sustain themselves towards mature sexuality and deeper intimacy. The book is a gift to professionals and lay readers from a thoughtful and reality based therapist."

Yvonne K. Fulbright

"Brandon does a masterful job taking on unsupported hypotheses, misguided ideas, and old-fashioned notions on monogamy for a nice reality check on where 'together forever' stands today. Well-researched, intelligent, and holistic, Brandon makes a massive topic accessible and applicable to professionals and the public alike. Readers seeking to bolster their monogamous efforts will feel empowered with the easy-to-follow exercises, as well as inspired by Brandon’s wisdom, thoughtfulness, and hope in making love magical over the long-haul."

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