Sex Smart: How Your Childhood Shaped Your Sexual Life and What to do About It By Aline P. Zoldbrod PageFree Publishing (2005) Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (1/06)

Much has been written about sexuality as well as theories have been formed about it. Most people seem to be curious about sexuality and want to explore the mysteries that are attached. However, not much has been revealed about the "why” certain behaviors occur until Dr. Aline Zoldbrod published her book "Sex Smart: How Your Childhood Shaped Your Sexual Life and What to do About it.”

Zoldbrod explores the multidimensional nature of human sexuality by presenting information through a cognitive base as well as emphasizing skills in communication and self-awareness. She covers sexuality from biological, moral, psychological, and social perspectives with research, client experiences, and theory.

According to Zoldbrod, what is considered as "normal” sexual behavior is typically based on observations made of family and society. She explains that how we are treated or what parameters are set upon us during our childhood reflects on sexual development. Touch, trust, feeling good about the body as well as oneself are just of the few dynamics that shape the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

"Sex Smart” gives the reader the opportunity to analyze, reflect, and come to terms with their own sexuality and behaviors through explanation and reading vignettes about experiences of others. After each chapter the reader can do exercises and self-assessments to become aware of their own issues and development. "Sex Smart” also gives the opportunity to examine the factors and decisions one has made in the past, and find ways to explore and replace them with new healthy patterns by re-writing the scripts brought down through the generations.

Although I highly recommend this book for every reader, it is necessary to note the importance of having a therapist at hand to discuss issues as they come during the reading and exercises of "Sex Smart.” This is not a book to skim through in a day, nor is it a book to take lightly. It is a book that evokes much inner thought and exploration of behaviors and attitudes that have been framed within the identity of the reader.