False Intimacy: Understanding the Struggle of Sexual Addiction

Rating:
Summary: Still waters run deeper than you think..
Review: This is a very comprehensive book about Sexual Addiction. I was overwhelmed at first, and yet it is the most complete 'overview' of what false intimacy is. It is not a self-help book. It does have some graphic examples to help the reader understand so many of the complexities of the nature of sexual addiction but not in the least offensive to the sensitive reader. What I appreciated the most about this book in particular is the fact that it maintains a high degree of dignity towards the 'spouse' of the sexually addicted person. I learned many things in this book, and have read it twice already. A worthwhile resource to own, especially if you or your spouse is in the ministry.

Rating:
Summary: Too many bible quotes & talk of SIN
Review: This is by far the worst book I have ever read on this topic. People with sexual addictions are not going to be helped by such bible-thumping judgments. So much talk of sin will only lead to more shame, not less. As Schaumburg recognizes that shame is such a large part of sexual addiction, you would think he would have avoided such heavy-handedness

Besides, one has to assume that anyone bothering to read such a book already knows he/she has a problem. If they don't know, this will probably not convince them - it will only make them tune Shaumburg out as a throw-back to the '50s. It really is too bad, because the section concerning how to prevent sexual addiction in their child is very good.

Rating:
Summary: Not Just for the Sexually addicted
Review: You don't have to be sexually "addicted" to benefit from this book. Most of the men that I know, (including myself) struggle with sexual fantasies, temptations to lust, etc. but do not fit the clinical definition of being sexually "addicted." Yet our sexual struggles serve a function in a dysfunctional way. We long for intimacy and deep meaninguful connection, yet we tend to be terrified of it at the same time. Real connection makes us too vulnerable! So it becomes easy to retreat to the safe world of sexual fantasy. Harry's book calls us to face into the heart of our sexual problems, which is our own hearts. Real intimacy (including sexual intimacy) is wonderful, frightening, scary, confusing and frustratingly fleeting at times, but it is worth it. Harry's book should be required reading in all church men's groups and seminaries.