1st Edition
Intrusive Partners - Elusive Mates The Pursuer-Distancer Dynamic in Couples
When two people form a relationship or marry, they begin to move towards one another with the expectation of closeness. The emotionality or intensity that accompanies this process, however, may result in fusion followed by a desperate need for space or distance. Intrusive Partners - Elusive Mates is the first book to deal exclusively with the pursuer-distancer interaction, and to focus significant attention on the emerging male pursuer-female distancer dynamic. This book revisits Fogarty's work, traces the concept over time and across different professional fields, and discusses in detail the concepts correlation with gender issues and social change. A detailed, step-by-step model of treatment to aid in de-escalating this potentially problematic style is also offered. The model in and of itself is unique because it integrates psychoanalytic conflict theory and psychodynamic systems theory into one treatment approach. This book is intended to offer the therapist a model for understanding and effectively discussing this dynamic, while at the same time allowing couples to read and explore it on their own.
Biography
Stephen J. Betchen, D.S.W., is a licensed marriage and family therapist, an AASECT certified diplomate and supervisor of sex therapy, and an AAMFT clinical member and approved supervisor. He maintains a full-time private practice in Cherry Hill, New Jersey specializing in marital/couples and sex therapy
'Dr. Betchen’s book thoroughly explores one of the common dynamics present in intimate relationships. It is practical and readable, and his focus on gender dynamics makes a creative contribution to better understanding patterns of behavior common in relationships.' - John R. Ballew, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
'An excellent book that describes a dynamic that every couples therapist sees in their office every day.' - Wade Luquet, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Sociology, Gwynedd-Mercy College; author, Short-Term Couples Therapy: The Imago Model in Action
'This book can be recommended as usefulreading to both trainees and experienced therapists... the reader is unlikely to be disappointed with the clinical description and advice' - Kevan Wylie, Sexual and Relationship Therapy