This book explores the nature of intimacy by revealing how the influence of individual, interpersonal and wider social factors create variations in self-disclosure, intimacy games and relationship habits. It describes how the dynamics of power and control in relationships give rise either to mutual satisfaction or to the unraveling of intimacy.

'...an essential and indispensable source in the study of close and intimate relationships, not only because of its authoritative critique of Giddens' and Beck and Beck-Gernsheim's renowned theories of modern intimacy, but also because it is an impressive attempt to re-theorise this field of study by considering the dimensions of intimacy and introducing different types of intimate relationships in modernity.' - Sociology

Autorentext
DEREK LAYDER is Visiting Professor at the University of Leicester, UK and Eminent Research Visitor, University of Western Sydney, Australia. His most recent publications include Social and Personal Identity, Emotion in Social Life, and Understanding Social Theory.

Inhalt
Introduction Understanding Couple Intimacy The Varieties of Couple Intimacy Psycho-Emotional Needs Intimacy& Interpersonal Control Gender, Intimacy Styles& Skills Arguments, Indirectness& Non-Disclosure Personal Strategies& Repertoires Energy-Draining Games Energising Games The Erosion of Intimacy The Nature of Modern Intimacy Intimacy, Power& Social Domains Bibliography