Sex Researchers:

Background

Clifford Penner comes from Canada. He is a licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. from Fuller’s Graduate School of Psychology, preceded by an M.A. in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and a B.A. from Bethel College in St. Paul, Minnesota. Joyce Penner is from Minnesota. She has a master's degree in psychosomatic nursing and nursing education from UCLA as well as a B.S. in nursing from the University of Washington. The Penners grew up in separate German Mennonite communities, and went on to meet and get married. They have both been trained at the Masters and Johnson Institute and promote the fact that they work as a team to provide top-quality training to professionals and laypersons alike. This couple is known around the world as sex therapists, educators, and authors. They currently maintain a full-time practice in sex therapy and have authored eight books and numerous articles together. They are also currently on faculty at the Institute for Sexual Wholeness (http://www.sexualwholeness.com/isw/index.htm) as educators/trainers for this post-graduate program.

Theories / Research

The goal of the Penners is to integrate theology, psychology, and biology in their training seminars. Their theories and practices are based on professional training from the Masters and Johnson Institute, theological training about biblical perspectives/principles, and personal/professional experience in working with many couples over the years.

Results

The Penners have provided counseling, training, and education to many individuals and couples, to not only give them proper information and training, but to affect positive change in the lives of those people they work with and speak to. They have sold a number of books, have written a number of articles, and continue to speak and teach on a regular basis along with their private practice in Pasadena, California.

Commentaries

Not everyone will consider the Penners to be clinical researchers, but they have provided helpful information and advice to thousands seeking help. They have significant credentials in their particular area of expertise and appear to spend their time and efforts helping people learn about and deal with their sexuality.

References

Penner, C., & Penner, J. (2004). About the penners. Retrieved September 12, 2004 from http://www.passionatecommitment.com/biograph.htm.

Penner, C., & Penner, J. (1981). The gift of sex: A guide to sexual fulfillment. Dallas: Word. Sexual Wholeness. (2002). Our faculty. Retrieved September 12, 2004 from http://www.sexualwholeness.com/isw/faculty.htm.