In this fully updated and revised edition, editors Bradbury (psychology, University of California) and Karney (psychology, UCLA) draw on feedback from students and colleagues to present an introduction to the essential aspects of intimate relationships, combining insights gained from research with critical analysis of theories and studies that have been influential. They aim to present students with a book they will be anxious to read and one that covers current important topics like the biological basis for intimacy, cultural influences on relationships, gender and sexual orientation, and couples therapy. The editors also aim to demonstrate to their peers that intimate relationships are now a study of importance in the field of the social sciences and long overdue as a scholarly work. There are 13 chapters that can be taught/read in any order with cross-references between chapters to increase continuity. Each chapter of this streamlined and focused edition begins with an outline and a vignette, for example, the relationships of Albert Einstein. There are Main Points and Spotlight features. The book targets instructors and students. There are graphs, tables, figures, a glossary, references, credits, about the authors, and a letter to students. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Read Less