When Does Sexual Fantasy Cross the Line From Healthy to Harmful?
NASHVILLE, TENN -- The Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy is still topping bestseller lists as film pre-production begins this month. And these healthy book sales have also fueled the sale of whips, chains, and other BDSM-related paraphernalia. Still, some dare to question whether a super dose of sexual fantasy is good for consumers. When, they ask, does sexual fantasy cross the line from healthy to harmful?
Best-selling author and counselor Shannon Ethridge answers this and other questions about sexual fantasy in The Fantasy Fallacy: Exposing the Deeper Meaning Behind Sexual Thoughts (Thomas Nelson Publishers, October 2012). Ethridge’s new book is a response to the Fifty Shades phenomenon, from both psychological and spiritual perspectives.
Ethridge explains that some sexual fantasies can become harmful, particularly when acted upon with others. “Fantasies which push the envelope beyond what is socially or spiritually acceptable are often rooted in childhood trauma or unresolved pain. The goal of this book isn’t to judge whether fantasies are ‘right or wrong,’ but to help people examine sexual fantasies closely enough to recognize their roots and help them heal their pain.”
Ethridge offers creative word pictures, real-life case studies and research from fellow counselors and psychologists to help readers appreciate the power and value of sexual fantasy. She also explains the purpose of sexual fantasy as the brain strives to heal itself from previous emotional damage.
Ethridge’s straight talk allows her to guide discussion around the topic of sexual fantasy from a both psychological and spiritual perspective. Questions she has tackled in interviews include:
• Why has Fifty Shades of Grey struck a nerve with soccer moms?
• What is the impact of erotic fantasy novels, especially BDSM, on young female readers?
• Is it unspiritual to have sexual fantasies?
• Why isn’t the “one flesh” of marriage enough flesh?
• How does sexual fantasy become sexual abuse?
• What is a healthy role for fantasy in sexuality?
Shannon Ethridge holds a master’s degree in Counseling and Human Relations and is a certified Life/Relationship Coach. She has authored 19 books including the best-selling Every Woman's Battle series and The Sexually Confident Wife. Her latest book is The Fantasy Fallacy: Exposing the Deeper Meaning Behind Sexual Thoughts.
Interviews and review copies are available upon request.
Contact
Pamela McClure
615-595-8321
