Reviews (25)

The Real Source of the Problem
I'm a pastoral counselor and spiritual director who specializes in sexual addiction counseling and groups and who's work in this area comes from personal experience, not just my training and theoretical understanding. I recommend "False Intimacy" more than any other book for men who are battling the behavior of sexual addiction, but who also desperately want to deal with the source of the struggle and not just stop at choking off the expression of the struggle (although that is critical).Dr. Schaumburg does the best job that I've seen of exploring the actual motivational power of sexual addiction, which ironically in the end is not essentially sexual.Very few books on this subject actually expose what is really going on below the behavioral and psychological patterns, but there will be no long-term meaningful freedom without facing what fuels the temptation and acting-out cycle.Clearly this is a more difficult and less popular approach (that's why so few books or groups actually engage the issue to this depth), but any other approach to this problem is "bringing a knife to a gun fight." The two alternatives to dealing with this issue can be summed up as 1) stopping the sexual acting out or sexual sin, or 2) through broken dependence upon Christ becoming the kind of men who are not controlled by lust.The 2nd alternative is what Dr. Schaumburg is inviting the reader to and is the only approach that changes the whole person and not just the behavior. I highly recommend this book and the journey it invites the reader to take in their soul - whether a sex addict or not.

Review of False Intimacy
The book, False Intimacy, arrived in excellent condition and it's content is truly amazing and informative.Dr. Shaumburg is definitely serving Jesus Christ with this book and is following Christ's calling in his life.From the original sin of Adam and Eve until now, man will always deal with sin hear on Earth, but Dr. Shaumburg offers wonderful Christian insight into the specific topic of different behavoirs we become involved in trying to fill a place in our heart that only Jesus' Holy Spirit can fill.The key is be submissive to Jesus' Holy Spirit.
God's Cure for "Overmuch Love"
"False Intimacy" is actually a much better and broader title than the subtitle, for Schaumburg's work is not only about sexual addiction. It is about what the Puritans called "overmuch love"--loving anything more than we love God. It is about what the Reformers called "idols of the heart"--placing anything in first place above God.
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Subjects:  1. Christianity    2. Christianity - Christian Life - General    3. Christianity - Christian Life - Sexuality    4. Intimacy (Psychology)    5. Religion    6. Religion - Socialissues    7. Religious aspects    8. Religious life    9. Sex addiction    10. Sex addicts    11. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Sexual    12. Sex & sexuality   

Reviews (3)

An excellent and thorough treatment of sexual addiction
This is a very comprehensive book on the mechanisms of sexual addiction.It is direct and thorough, with lots of detail on the dynamics of this disorder and the does a good job of describing the disorder at the individual and systems levels.
Far more than meets the eye
For me it would have been more difficult to appreciate this book had I not read "Out of the Shadows." I had purchased these books over ten years ago but only read them within the past few months. One of the great values of Carnes approach is his no wholes barred, stratight on approach to addiction and the role that sexual addiction plays. There is nothing wishy-washy in his approach to the dilemma, nor is there anything apologetic about his criticisms (i.e. limitations) of AA and common theraputic practices. To me he is entirely convincing which speaks for his clear understanding of addiction that adds for the breakdown of social or societal illusions and delusions. I just wish he took more seriously what he refers to as stage one addictions to which he does concede some degree of (to me mostly unjustifiable) normalcy and acceptance based on social norms. Aside from that, it is simply an outstanding book.

One of the best books in this field!
The title of this book reveals the premise that Patrick Carnes presents. He tells us that the behaviors of sexual addicts are not actions of love, but of abnormal, compulsive rituals performed in a desparate attempt toself-treat the feelings of despair and anger that has become the fabric ofthe addict's life. This book is not an introductory volume, it is quitethorough and detailed. The author outlines six phases of sex addiction aswell as explaining three levels of behavior. He points out that thedifferent levels of behavior are not necessarily progressive, but thephases of addiction ARE.While this book is designed specifically forthose who are care-givers for the sexually addicted, it also gives comfortand insight to the co-addict or codependent involved with the addict. Thethoroughness and detail that he writes with may actually be beyond the easycomprehension of many addicts themselves, due to their cloudy comprehensionand frequent separations from reality, but I would recommend this book as achallenge and as an invaluable tool for breaking the chains of sexualaddiction. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Behavior Therapy    2. Recovery    3. Rehabilitation    4. Self-Help    5. Sex addicts    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Sexual    8. Mental health services    9. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    10. Popular psychology    11. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Subjects:  1. Mental Illness    2. Psychology    3. Psychopathology - Addiction    4. Psychotherapy - Counseling    5. Recovery    6. Self-Help    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    8. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    9. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (4)

Worth Purchasing for the Diet Info Alone
What a great book.Clear, common-sense advice on keeping your mind healthy through natural approaches.The diet-related information is worth its weight in gold.I would highly recommend this book to anyone.

A broader view of depresssion
Excellent book.A multi-disciplinary view of depression, it looks beyond drug and talk therapy without denying their importance.Emmons studied, practices, and writes about other approaches to depression, such as diet, supplements, exercise, Ayurvedic (historical Indian) medicine and the Buddhist psychological/emotional types.This provides a deeper and broader understanding and treatment of depression.A richly woven text.

A wonderful tool for regular folk and for professionals
As a mindfulness meditation teacher and a spiritual mentor, I am keeping copies of The Chemistry of Joy in my office. I have already recommended the book to numerous friends and family members. Some of the highlights for me: 1) the gentle, clear way that Dr. Emmons reminds us readers that there are many doors to healing, that it is good to open the door that moves most easily for us first, and that it is often through making one or two adaptations on a number of levels that we begin to experience life as having more comfort to it; 2) the empowerment that comes from having this kind and seasoned psychiatrist steadily reminding us to believe in our deeper self; 3) the way desperation is allayed as one realizes that brain chemistry correlates with two ancient wisdom systems from other parts of the globe- ah, what a balm for the isolation that one can feel on this difficult journey to relieve depression. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Consumer Health    2. General    3. Healing    4. Health & Fitness    5. Health/Fitness    6. Holistic Medicine    7. Mental Depression    8. Mental Health    9. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    10. Coping with illness    11. Health & Fitness / General    12. Neurology & clinical neurophysiology   

Reviews (8)

Pretty good
This book is pretty good. But when I went shopping for a professional interventionist, every one I interviewed suggested that I read the book "Love First." I've read both, but Love First really lays out the whole process in detail and takes you through it step by step. And yes, the intervention was successful. Thank God!

Here's a thought ...
How to deal with someone who doesn't want your help?Here's a really radical idea: leave the person alone.

A Classic Text
...the disease model is settled science. The American Medical Association has recognized alcoholism as a disease since the 1950s and long-term research of high validity supports the fact that addiciton is a disease...I do hope potential readers of this classic text will not be dissuaded by an unknown source's unfounded personal beliefs. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Drug And Alcohol Abuse Treatment    3. Drug abuse    4. Family Relationships    5. Rehabilitation    6. Self-Help    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Drug Dependence    8. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    9. Treatment    10. Alcoholism    11. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    12. Drug addiction & substance abuse    13. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (2)

I Really USE This Book
I have an old copy of this book that I have read several times.In addition to the Big Book, it is almost a "must read" for anyone conducting or starting AA, Al-Anon, or Serenity Groups meetings.I help conduct Serenity Groups meetings, and I have found this book to be invaluable (visit SerenityGroups.org).In addition, I recommend the book "Prayer Steps to Serenity."Based on the 12 Steps, "Prayer Steps to Serenity" does discuss some different traditions because it seeks to encourage inclusive support groups and existing support groups to be more inclusive. ISBN 0595313043

A Must for Your Recovery Toolbox
This is a real must for anyone in any of the of the 12 step programs who is wishing to understand the traditions and steps more completly.The vinyettes are heartfelt and identifyable. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    4. Twelve-Step Programs    5. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (14)

awakening
This book was recommended by my therapist and after reading it I gave it to a friend who is also an adult child of an alcoholic.I haven't got the book back so I'm buying another copy for myself.I NEED to read it again and again. It opened my eyes and put a lot of the pieces of the puzzle together for me. Although it's hard to face some of the realities this book points out, I believe it to be one of the vital steps I am taking in trying to change my life for the better. It's never too late.

accurate and helpful
claudia black is a respected author in the field of addictions.she writes for adults and children for both alcoholics and their families.i have read many books in this area and she is one of my favorite authors.the book is short, accutate,compassionately written, and forever timely. worth reading!

Excellent Insight into Who I am and Why
I read this book AFTER reading ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS by Janet Woititz.Both provided me with insight into a problem I only recently realized I have.However, Black's book is both easier to read and has more detailed analysis.She divides ACoAs into four categories:The Responsible One, The Adjuster, The Placater, and "Acting Out".I fit the profile of Responsible in every way.I now understand myself better, and am beginning therapy for the first time in my life at the age of 55.Thank you, Dr. Black, for opening my eyes! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Abuse - General    2. Adult Children of Alcoholics    3. Alcoholics    4. Children of alcoholic parents    5. Family relationships    6. Self-Help    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    8. Popular psychology    9. Psychology & Psychiatry / General   

Reviews (10)

Perfect Daughters
This book was so helpful with it's insight into the experience of having an alcoholic parent.It is written well, easy to follow and answers questions you didn't even know you had.I highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to people like myself who are at the beginning of their quest for the truth and don't want to read a book that feels too clinical and complicated.

A cheesy way to earn a living
Having recently come to understand the role of my alcoholic parents' habits in my development as an adult, I have been seeking every possible source for information and strategies for dealing with my own behavior problems.I have found some wonderful sources -- Janet Woititz' books, for example.I had high hopes for this book, Perfect Daughters since I am such a freak but what I got was a book written in large print, at a level merely approaching 6th grade, that is 40% this man's clients' letters.His analysis is facile and offers nothing new.Yes, we all feel this way; yes we all share certain qualities, but anyone who's done only minimal research will discover this very soon.This book offers nothing new.I feel ripped off by the book's "promises", insulted by the writers' tone and plethora of marginally relevant quotations clearly pasted from quotes.com.Don't buy this book; check it out of the library and get what good you can from it. There is some there, but not $10 worth.

The Perfect Daughter
I am a child of an alcoholic Mother.I try very hard to avoid books that talk about adult children of Alcoholics becuase they usually make things sound very over technical and impersonal.I am not a very emotional person and I know the decisions I make in my life are because of my families alcoholic issues.However, this was a book that was not very hard to read and I would highly recoomend it.After reading the very first story and bawling my eyes out about that little family princess who never understood and was always trying to make it okay,I knew the book was for me to read.That's ME!!! That's ME!!! I kept saying over and over. Ironically I highlighted every sentence and passage that had to do with my childhood and feelings in the book and I believe I ended up with 90% of it highlighted.I couldn't help to think that someone had a hidden journal on my heart and feelings growing up.If only that person had stepped in when I was young what a difference it would have made.I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Adjustment (Psychology)    2. Adult Children of Alcoholics    3. Codependency    4. Daughters    5. Self-Help    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    7. United States    8. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    9. Drug addiction & substance abuse    10. Self-Help / Adult Children of Substance Abusers   

Reviews (3)

GreatBook!
This is truely an easy to read, step-by-step book.Explaining first the teenager's brain and thinking and what stresses a teenager has in their life, then going on to reasons for drug use, and practical, tangible ways to deal with it.This is a great book for any parent of a teenager to read, whether or not they have found their child trying drugs.It is a great "heads up" informative sourcebook.I esp liked the section on what special emotional needs that teens are looking to have fulfilled during adolescence.It is really helpful to read that as a parent of any teenager.

Author Survival Meditations for Parents of Teens
It's so important for parents to DO SOMETHING when they discover their teen using alcohol or other drugs. This no-nonsense approach is one of the best I've seen, and I've been counseling for over 20 years.

Know a drug using teen? Read this book--You can help!
Of all the books I've read on the subject of teenagers and drug/alcohol abuse, this is by far the best.The authors clearly spell out exactly why you're right to be worried and how to help.They explain how to conduct an"intervention" to cut through the teen's denial thatdrugs/alcohol is a problem for her or him.By presenting treatment optionsand contracts as her or his "choices," parents and others canalso give up the sense of fear that leads to ineffectual efforts to controlsomeone else's drinking or drug use.Once you let go and realizethat--just as the teen you care about has a choice (including using)--youhave a choice to impose consequences that range from mild to severe.Thebook is oddly reassuring and direct.A must-read for any parent or friendof a substance using teen. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcohol use    2. Alcoholism    3. Drug use    4. Family & Relationships    5. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    6. Family/Marriage    7. Life Stages - Adolescence - Drugs/Drinking    8. Parenting - General    9. Prevention    10. Teenagers    11. United States    12. Adolescent children    13. Adolescents    14. Children    15. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    16. Drug addiction & substance abuse    17. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (3)

Wonderful!
This book will help anyone - 12 stepper or not. It brings areas of your life to light, allowing you to see your part in it and how you use it. A great source for anyone wanting to grow and change into a better person, the person God intended you to be.

A true gem
Before I read the book I was looking for practical advice on how to do the whole process of removing my character defects-I found all the answers in this little book. It is a practical, hands-on guide to spiritual and emotional growth.I am so grateful to have been recommended to read it by so many other OA members.

Drop the rock:Removing Character Defects, Steps Six and Seven
This book de mystifies the process of removing character defects.IF you are struggling with what to do with the short directions on step six, this is the book. It gives a detailed description of the life long process of eliminating the defects that we have made into our personalities.As in all things in recovery it guides us through the tentative first steps.I have been searching for a book like this for a very long time.This book has changed the course of my recovery for the better. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Patients    3. Personality disorders    4. Recovery    5. Rehabilitation    6. Religious life    7. Self-Help    8. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    9. Twelve-Step Programs    10. Self-Help / Twelve-Step Programs   

Subjects:  1. Children: Grades 3-4    2. Family - Parents    3. General    4. Juvenile Nonfiction    5. Psychology    6. Social Issues - Drugs, Alcohol, & Substance Abuse    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism   

Reviews (4)

An excellent approach to a very difficult problem
After over 15 years of watching my mother's drinking problem worsen, my family came to the conclusion that there was nothing we could do to help her. We thought, "How can you help someone who doesn't want help or doesn't think there is a problem?" This book very clearly shows you that with the right approach, there is something that you can do to help your loved one get the necessary treatment required to overcome his/her addiction. Bruce Cotter uses a very clear, personal approach that everyone can understand. After reading this book, I felt empowered to help my mother into the treatment program that she desparately needs.

Alive Magazine
"The primary beneficiaries of this work would be those who are Powerful, helpful information.
I was so caught up in the pain and confusion of the addiction of my friend, I could not see straight.After reading the book I can see more clearly what I can do to help, and what I can't do. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    4. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Drug Dependence   

Reviews (1)

Valuable Analysis
This was one of the most informative and helpful books I've read on the subject.It helped define the specific issues all ACOA's face and yet may not have realized were related to the experience.
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Subjects:  1. Adult Children of Alcoholics    2. Interpersonal relations    3. Psychology    4. Self-Help    5. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    6. Self-Help / Adult Children of Substance Abusers   

Reviews (6)

Life Saver
I was a heavy smoker and drinker for almost 3 decades, until my COPD diagnosis last fall (at the age of 42).The situation was absolutely hopeless, my dr told me to quit smoking immediately, and there was a chance that my emphysema could reverse, but attempting to quit had been TORTURE in the past and I knew even this wouldn't make me quit.As a last ditch effort, I ordered The Easy Way to Quit Smoking, and...it WORKED. within two months I stopped my 2-3 pack per day habit. I've been smoke free for ten months.At the same time that i purchased it, I also bought The Easy Way to Control Alcohol.It took a while to manage both, but as of tonight I'm 2 weeks and two days completely sober.I never could've done it without these books.
Carr promises the earth, the moon and the stars (but of course he cannot deliver)
Once again, Carr's central truth is: To know how the addiction works is to be free of it.
Well, there is NO easier, softer way....AA 101
It boils down to quitting your addiction, cold. And it's hard, really really hard. Personnaly speaking, I'm addicted to alcohol and cigarrettes. Lucky me, it's the "usual" ones. Without reading this book, yeah I'm being totally honest, just on the face of it, this book is BOGUS. If you're anywhere near a library, (thank you Carnegie!) check this guy out, for free. You'll "get it" real fast. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    2. Recovery   

Editorial Review

This startling look at desperate, drug-addled inner-city lives ranks as one of the grittiest--and best--examinations of underclass America available. Like Alex Kotlowitz's Read more

Reviews (56)

excellent
I had to read this book for my criminology class, and finished it early. This book is hard to put down, it draws you in. I read 200 pages in one night. The book is hard to read, not tounderstand butbecause it is heart-breaking. the book is a real-eye opener to the harsh realties of the inner-city. This book is excellent , highly recommend.
not for everybody
this is one book where the movie was better.however, i always like to read the book to get the actual details. this book is over 500 pages .it is very detailed , but not a page turner.

A Treasure
One of the outstanding books of our times.A powerful and compelling read.Will appeal to people from across the political spectrum.The Corner is a gem of a book! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Baltimore    2. Drug Crimes    3. Drug abuse    4. Drug addicts    5. Drug dealers    6. General    7. Maryland    8. Politics/International Relations    9. Poverty    10. Social Science    11. Sociology    12. Sociology - Urban    13. Urban Sociology    14. Alcoholism    15. Crime & criminology    16. Current Events / Poverty    17. Drug addiction & substance abuse    18. Urban communities   

Reviews (10)

Practical, comprehensive help... builds acceptance of discipline, grace and truth.
I have talked to many who have attempted to recover fromdestructive sexual habits; their underlying problem is often quite complex. For the person who is starting to desire freedom, there is usually confusion and a lack of awareness of what is happening inside one's heart and mind to bring about this kind of chronic behavior.
Great Book
As for the only negative feedback I saw on here....Sexual addictions can very much destroy homes, families, jobs, and ones self.
1st book I tried, all I really needed!
Without reiterating what the other reviewers have said, this book was just so helpful to me in understanding my cybersex addition and finding comfort in the love of God to heal my wounds and bring me peace.My sister sent me the book right after I was fired for watching porn on the internet at work (worst day of my life).I have always considered myself a Christian, though was always at war with myself because of my "secret" side (and I'm no "bible thumper").Besides seeing God's work in my being fired, this book brought me so much freedom and joy through knowing that there was a way out and God had/would forgive me if I continued to repent for my past.I've "fallen off the wagon" several times in the past year, and I'm about to read this book again to get me back on the right track.If you're addicted, or think you might be, and want to find a Christ-centered way out, don't even hesitate - BUY THIS BOOK and READ IT. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Applied Christian Sexual Ethics    2. Christianity    3. Inspirational - Protestant Self Help    4. Rehabilitation    5. Religious aspects    6. Religious life    7. Self-Help    8. Sex Relations    9. Sex addiction    10. Sex addicts    11. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    12. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Sexual   

Subjects:  1. Drugs    2. Medical    3. Medical / Nursing    4. Pharmaceutical Research    5. Pharmacology    6. Pharmacy    7. Testing    8. Toxicology    9. Drug addiction & substance abuse    10. Medical / Pharmacology   

Subjects:  1. Criminology    2. Psychology    3. Psychopathology - Addiction    4. Psychotherapy - General    5. Addiction & therapy    6. Drug addiction & substance abuse    7. Psychology & Psychiatry / Addictions   

Reviews (13)

Love Is a Choice Workbook
This workbook can help you work through issues and bring you closer to the person you want to be.

Love Is A Choice
No matter where you are in your walk in life, no matter what your relationships with others is like, you will derive value in reading this book.A few pages may be challenging, but don't stop reading.The book is a good foundation for starting, repairing or building relationships at home, at work or wherever you interact with people.It is introspective, uplifing and perfect for a quiet weekend alone.

Don't be fooled by the children
who threw a tantrum because this book included Christian principles and therefore gave it only one star.It's very easy to read and makes VERY CLEAR points. You can not read this book and fail to understand codependency (which most of us suffer to some small degree) and the solutions.If you don't agree with a few small points, don't whine and just skip them.Excellent, excellent book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Codependency    2. Codependents    3. Neurology - General    4. Recovery    5. Rehabilitation    6. Self-Help    7. Family & Health    8. Psychology    9. Religion / Christian Life   

Reviews (5)

Don't wait any longer...
Tomorrow is 5 months since I stopped drinking with the help of this book.As the book says, I wish I could fast forward your life to just 2-3 days after you finish reading the book and stop drinking.You honestly will have an incredibly wonderful life without alchohol controlling it.I have so much energy and am so happy.People around me continue to comment on how positive the changes are.I've lost weight, lost the bondage of alchohol and gained joy and happiness.And, I've faced my first crises - being laid off from my job - without alchohol and not only did I not miss it, but it is easier without the monster!Just read this book.You have nothing to loose and everything to gain!

One book CAN change your life!
I am astounded that one book could change the way I view my life!I read this book cover to cover and then reread several of the chapters that I needed clarification on.Alcohol is all around me and I don't crave it at all anymore.I have tried to quit or cut back on drinking several times over the past few years.It is always a miserable experience which ends with a drink.After reading Carr's book, I not only feel great; I have hope!I am amazed that I now have my life back!
The only way, for me
This book is unlike any other - it comes at you from a totally different direction, and one that makes a lot of sense.You have to read it, and then you will understand why it is easy, once it is explained to you. You can actually use his method of thinking in other areas of your life, as well.
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Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    4. SELF IMPROVEMENT - SELF IMPROV TRD HC    5. Self-Help / Alcoholism