Sex Researchers:

Background

David Schnarch is a clinical psychologist whose works focus on intimate relationships. He is a certified sex therapist and supervisor, a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and taught at the Louisiana State University Medical School. Dr. Schnarch and his wife, Dr. Ruth Morehouse founded The Marriage & Family Health Center located in Evergreen Colorado. In addition to his books, Dr. Schnarch regularly contributes to various websites, has appeared on television and radio programs and conducts workshops and professional trainings.

Research & Results

Dr. Schnarch is best known for two books, Constructing the Sexual Crucible: An Integration of Sexual and Marital Therapy written for practitioners and Passionate Marriage written for the general public. His institute regularly conducts workshops on his approaches that primarily focus on understanding one’s own relationship and how that relationship impacts sexual intimacy.
Key components concerning Dr. Schnarch’s writings include:
1. Individuals never reach their sexual potential.
2. Intimate sex is a learned ability.
3. Sex is something you are to do and not do.
4. Men and women become better lovers as they mature.
5. Good sex is not a natural function
6. Have sex with your eyes open.
7. The spirituality of sex is the profound connection with your partner.
8. Marital problems do not equate a lack of intimacy.

Commentary

Dr. Schnarch’s work is considered innovative in the field of marriage and family therapy. His contributions can be found on most websites providing information about couples, marriage, sexual dysfunction and intimacy. Dr. Schnarch’s works are widely accepted in both the secular and religious fields.

Resources

ABC National Radio, Health Report transcript. September 25, 1995: Interview with Dr. David Schnarch. Retrieved September 12, 2004 from the Australian Broadcasting Company Website: http://www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/8.30/helthrpt/hstories/hr250901.htm

A Conversation with Dr. David Schnarch. Retrieved September 12, 2004 from FSB Associates website:
http://www.fsbassociates.com/books2/passionatemarriageq_a.htm

Schnarch, D. 1994. Joy with your underwear down. Psychology today. 27(4). 38-43, The Marriage and Family Health Center website: http://www.passionatemarriage.com

Schnarch, D. Couples are the same on both sides of the Atlantic. Retrieved September 12, 2004 from Third Age website: http://www.thirdage.com

Books by David Schnarch

Schnarch, D. (1991). Constructing the Sexual Crucible: An Integration of Sexual and Marital Therapy. W. W. Norton.

Schnarch. D. (1997). Passionate Marriage: Sex, Love, and Intimacy in Emotionally Committed Relationships. W. W. Norton.

Schnarch, D. (1998). Passionate Marriage: Keeping Love and Intimacy Alive in Committed Relationships. New York: Henry Holt.

Schnarch, D. (2002). Resurrecting Sex: Resolving Sexual Problems and Rejuvenating Your Relationship. HarperCollins.