Psychology's approach to sexual orientation has long had its foundation in essentialism, which undergirds psychological theory and research as well as clinical practice and applications of psychology to public policy issues. It is only recently that psychology as a discipline has begun to entertain social constructivism as an alternative approach. Based on the belief that thoughtful dialogue can engender positive change, Conversations about Psychology and Sexual Orientation explores the implications for psychology of both essentialist and social constructionist understandings of sexual orientation. The book opens with an introduction presenting basic theoretical frameworks, followed by three application sections dealing with clinical practice, research and theory, and public policy. In each, the discussion takes the form of a conversation, as the authors first consider essentialist and constructionist approaches to the topic at hand. These thoughts, in turn, are followed by responses from distinguished scholars chosen for their expertise in a particular area. By providing an array of comments and thoughtful responses to topics surrounding psychology's approaches to sexual orientation, this valuable study sheds new light on the contrasting views held in the field and the ways in which essentialist and constructionist understandings may be applied to specific practices and policies.

In "conversation" with six other contributors, Bohan (psychology, Metropolitan State College of Denver) and Russell (psychology and women's studies, U. of Colorado) discuss the implications of existentialist and constructivist approaches to sexual orientation for clinical practice, research, theory, and public policy. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

The first authoritative summary of its kind in this area, the Handbook of Psychology and Sexual Orientation is the primary resource for the many researchers, including a new generation of investigators, who are continuing to advance understanding in this field. The volume editors along with other leading experts, contribute an extraordinary review of contemporary psychological research and theory on sexual orientation in their specific fields of work.

Current Research on Bisexuality is an important resource on recent psychological and sociological findings in bisexual studies. The authors provide research findings and case studies that add to our understanding of bisexual identity, bisexuality and relationships, bisexuality and ethnicity, and attitudes toward bisexual people. This book examines research findings, literature reviews, and a wealth of resources that currently exist on bisexuality and bisexual issues. This book will bring you up to date on: bisexual identity development bisexuality in college students cross-orientation friendships of bisexual women bisexual married women and men—and their spouses bisexuality and heterosexually married couples monogamous as well as open bisexual relationships the interrelationship of bisexuality, race, and ethnicity attitudes toward bisexual women and bisexual men Current Research on Bisexuality also contains a comprehensive reader’s guide to the current social science literature about bisexuality. This bibliography brings together a wide range of nonfiction books, journal articles, book chapters, theses, and dissertations on bisexuality with a focus in the theoretical, research clinical, and community perspectives that have that have developed in the last twenty years. This reading list is essential for students, educators, researchers, and practitioners in psychology, counseling, social work, psychiatry, education, sociology, and anthropology. Current Research on Bisexuality provides new knowledge of the life experiences of bisexual people. With this book, you’ll find a basis for further research and education about bisexuality in the greater context of ongoing research, education, and advocacy regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues.

This book bridges psychoanalytic thought and sexual science. It brings sexuality back to the center of psychoanalysis and shows how important it is for students of human sexuality to understand motives that are often irrational and unconscious. The authors present a new perspective about male and female development, emphasizing the ways in which sexual orientation and homophobia appear early in life. The clinical section of the book focuses on the psychodynamics and treatment of homophobia and internalized homophobia.

Psychology and Sexual Orientation strives to "come to terms" with lesbian, gay and bisexual life and with the controversial scientific and sociocultural theories and arguments on the origin and meaning of homosexuality and queer life in the US. Janis M. Bohan disrupts conventional psychological perspectives on queer life and identity and animates the ongoing debate between essentialism and constructionism. Bohan discusses the meaning of sexual orientation; lesbian, gay and bisexual identity development and stigma management; diversity in experiences; partners and parenting; and lesbian, gay and bisexual communities.

Based on a qualitative research study of gay and lesbian teachers, Unmasking Identities explores how gay and lesbian teachers bring together their identities in a climate where the two have historically been pitted against each other. Janna Marie Jackson demonstrates that participants made direct and indirect connections between their experiences related to being gay or lesbian and their classroom practices of promoting social justice and building on students' understandings. This process of integrating their sexual identities with their roles as teachers was facilitated and inhibited by several factors including the community atmosphere, school culture, and family status. This unique book explores what happens when identities are oppressed and suppressed and the consequences when they finally break free. Unmasking Identities provides theoretical understandings and practical advice for teachers, administrators, and policy-makers who are concerned about gay and lesbian issues. This engaging text will appeal to those interested in gender studies and issues in education.