Sexual Diversity: Being Human through Understanding and Acceptance is an in-depth exploration of the vast diversity of sexual and erotic orientations, including heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer identities, as well as erotic diversity from vanilla to kink and everything in between. The book looks at the heteronormative ‘norms’ prescribed by society and how these may be problematic for all populations, including heterosexual people. As part of diversity, the book offers a frame of thinking based on intersectionality.
The work is a reference point to sexual and erotic diversities, written in plain English and in a conversational style. It attempts to offer a definition of the different identity terms that can be confusing, while acknowledging that language is fluid and changeable. This helps us to be more aware of the language we use and how we can stay as adaptable and fluid as eroticism can be. The content embraces inclusivity and helps us to learn to accept differences and to be more knowledgeable in the wide range of ways to live. It enables us to challenge our pre-conceived ideas and assumptions regarding sexuality and eroticism, and to continue learning and staying curious about diverse communities, cultures, and subcultures in the sexuality and erotic arenas. The concepts discussed are brought to life with stories from the consulting room and the world outside.
This is a gem of a book that not only teaches us so much but also offers us opportunities for self-reflection. It is an absolute must-read for practising psychotherapists, counsellors, and psychoanalysts, as well as other professionals in the social care environment and every human interested in learning more about the wide variety of sexuality and eroticism in the world.
Silva Neves
Meg-John Barker, author of Sexually: A Graphic Guide and How To Understand Your Sexuality –
‘A clear and concise primer on the vast range of sexual identities and expressions, fantasies, and practices. Silva Neves provides a friendly, accessible introduction of what to be aware of when exploring clients’ erotic worlds, and signposts valuable resources for further reflection.’
Dominic Davies, fellow of the National Council for Integrative Psychotherapy and the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society, and the founder of Pink Therapy –
‘Over the past several decades, our understanding of sexuality has undergone significant transformations. Once characterised by myths, prejudice, and restrictive beliefs, Silva Neves provides therapists with valuable insights into these changes based on the most recent research evidence. This book empowers us to comprehend contemporary sexuality with greater compassion and wisdom. It is an indispensable resource for every clinician’s library.’
Jo Coker, AccCOSRT (Sen), AccCOSRT (Sup), MBPsS, FCOSRT, counselling psychologist, director of therapy and training standards at the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT) –
‘This is an excellent book on sexual diversity from Silva Neves who writes very clearly and demystifies much of the contemporary rhetoric around the subject. It is very readable, clearly set out, and, importantly, enjoyable to read. This book would be an excellent resource to students, qualified therapists, and those in related professions.’