Together, Closer: The Art and Science of Intimacy in Friendship, Love, and Family

Frazzetto (research fellow, Trinity Coll. Dublin; Joy, Guilt, Anger, Love) describes the sometimes complex intimate relationships people have with others. Eight relationships are highlighted in the chapters. Each story includes psychological, biological, and neuroscience research studies to explain the opinions and emotions that make human behavior complicated and mysterious. The stories include a single woman who has an imaginary boyfriend to cope with her failed relationships; a straight couple in a long-term love affair; a family that copes with the loss of a loved one; and a gay couple who is inseparable even though they appear to be unsuited for each other. Intimacy is about revealing worries and hopes to those people cherish. Frazzetto reminds readers that people can be intimate with not only romantic partners but also with family and friends. He helps readers consider their close relationships, whether they flourish, strengthen, or dissolve. Although this book is thoroughly researched with a wealth of scholarly sources cited, Frazzetto reaches a broad audience by exploring a topic that everyone can understand.