TL;DR
Navigating the treacherous waters of infidelity, ‘Not Just Friends’ offers a lifeline to couples grappling with betrayal. Renowned psychologist Shirley P. Glass delves into the complexities of emotional and physical affairs, providing insightful guidance on rebuilding trust, recovering from the trauma, and making informed decisions about the future of the relationship.
Table of contents
Open Table of contents
Author & Writing Background
Dr. Shirley P. Glass, a pioneer in infidelity research and therapy, brought her extensive clinical experience and profound understanding of human relationships to this book. With compassion and clarity, she guides readers through the tumultuous aftermath of betrayal, offering practical tools and strategies for healing. Sadly, Dr. Glass passed away before the book’s publication, but her co-author, Jean Coppock Staeheli, ensured her invaluable insights reached those in need.
Key Takeaways
Understanding Infidelity
The book explores the various types of infidelity, from emotional affairs to sexual betrayals, shedding light on the underlying causes and motivations that lead individuals down this path.
The Impact of Betrayal
Glass delves into the profound emotional and psychological effects of infidelity on both partners, addressing the pain, anger, and loss of trust that ensue.
Rebuilding Trust
The book provides a roadmap for rebuilding trust, emphasizing the importance of honesty, transparency, and consistent actions that demonstrate commitment to the relationship.
Communication and Healing
Glass underscores the critical role of open and honest communication in the healing process, offering practical strategies for couples to navigate difficult conversations and express their emotions effectively.
Forgiveness
The book explores the complexities of forgiveness, acknowledging the challenges and offering guidance on how to move towards forgiveness as part of the healing journey.
Making Decisions
Glass provides a framework for couples to evaluate their relationship and make informed decisions about whether to reconcile or separate.
Moving Forward
The book offers hope and guidance for couples who choose to rebuild their relationship, outlining steps to create a stronger, more resilient bond.
Individual Recovery
Glass recognizes the importance of individual healing and self-care for both partners, offering strategies for coping with the emotional turmoil and rebuilding self-esteem.
FAQ about Not Just Friends
Is ‘Not Just Friends’ only for couples dealing with infidelity?
While the book primarily focuses on infidelity, the insights on communication, trust, and forgiveness can be valuable for any relationship facing challenges.
Does the book promote staying in the relationship after infidelity?
The book offers guidance and support for couples regardless of their decision. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the reasons behind the infidelity and making informed choices about the future.
How long does it take to rebuild trust after infidelity?
The timeline for rebuilding trust varies for each couple and depends on the specific circumstances of the betrayal and the commitment to healing.
Not Just Friends Quotes
- Infidelity is the breaking of trust that occurs when you deliberately keep intimate secrets from your partner.
- Recovery from an affair is a process, not an event. It takes time, effort, and patience.
- Forgiveness is not about forgetting; it’s about letting go of the hurt and resentment that keep you stuck in the past.