The Other Side of the Closet: The Coming-Out Crisis For Straight Spouses

At least 2,000,000 Americans are or were married to gay, lesbian, or bisexual partners. When the partner comes out, the straight spouse is devastated. THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CLOSET explores this exploding social phenomenon. Based on five years of research, including interviews with 450 men & women, the study explores common problems & diverse solutions. Most literature on the subject looks at the homosexual partner, but Dr. Buxton focuses on the straight spouse. Personal stories illustrate problems straight spouses face, issues which few outsiders would understand: sexual rejection, deception, non-traditional relationship, children's concerns, identity crisis, & shattered belief system. Buxton's analysis reveals psychological, familial, moral & spiritual implications. Stories & discussion trace stages of the struggle toward eventual transformation. Coping strategies for everyone -- spouse, partner, children & relatives -- to grow in understanding are highlighted. THE OTHER SIDE, with its discussion of children & husbands of lesbians, is the most comprehensive study of the subject to date. It is a resource for spouses, couples, professionals, & serious lay readers. Featured on national TV, the book has inspired growth of the support network for spouses sponsored by Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays. "Penetrating vignettes...(of)... an often neglected group."--PUBLISHERS WEEKLY. Available at bookstores & through major distributors.