The Loveless Family

Bloch (sociology, Southern Connecticut State Univ.; Finding Your Leading Man) has strayed from his expertise in sociology too far into psychology with this purported self-help book for those who never felt loved in their family. The narrative is an uncomfortable mix of exhortations and personal reminiscences, with citations of scholarly work on such related areas as interpersonal dynamics and self-image. The writing is often disorganized and repetitive, and readers must search for the occasional nugget of useful information. Editorial laissez-faire, surprising from such a reputable publisher, extends to incorrect word use (e.g., ring instead of wring). The psychological and even physical consequences of growing up in loveless families are significant, but a more cogent presentation was made decades ago by M. Scott Peck in The Road Less Traveled.