by Yvette de Beixedon, Ph.D.

Readers who will find this self-help psychology book of great value:

    * Partners, relatives, and friends of sexual abuse survivors;
    * Sexual abuse survivors;
    * Health care professionals; and
    * Educators

Readers' comments:

    * "Finally, a book designed with unique issues of partners in mind!"
    * "I appreciate this powerful, easy-to-read support and resource guide."

Lovers & Survivors is a comprehensive, self-help book directed at couples in which one or both partners have survived sexual trauma. This book offers information for the couple, as well as a variety of exercises designed to promote understanding, intimacy, and interaction.

Lovers & Survivors is primarily directed to the partner who seeks to improve his or her understanding of the survivor's experience, both at the time of the trauma and since that time. Exercises invite the partner to absorb and apply the information presented. Informational highlights provide the reader with detailed concepts and ideas.

Readers learn about sexual abuse and its multifaceted impact. They are encouraged to explore their own experiences and responses. This process is designed to facilitate development and expression of empathy for the survivor and self-compassion for the partner in the shared experience of trauma.

This book promotes healthy relationships and explains some of the potential obstacles that couples may encounter during their journey together. The final section provides answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions about sexual abuse and healing. Readers can begin to identify with others with similar experiences. They are provided with some basic guidelines for healthy interaction, and a comprehensive directory of resources available.

Soft cover; 6 x 9, ISBN 1-885003-09-9; $14.95 plus $3.50 shipping and handling.