Have you been traumatized by infidelity?
The phrase broken heart belies the real trauma behind the all-too-common occurrence of infidelity. Psychologist Dennis Ortman likens the psychological aftermath of sexual betrayal to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in its origin and symptoms, including anxiety, irritability, rage, emotional numbing, and flashbacks. Using PTSD treatment as a model, Dr. Ortman will show you, step by step, how to:
• work through conflicting emotions
• Understand yourself and your partner
• Make important life decisions
Dr. Ortman sees recovery as a spiritual journey and draws on the wisdom of diverse faiths, from Christianity to Buddhism. He also offers exercises to deepen recovery, such as guided meditations and journaling, and explores heart-wrenchingly familiar case studies of couples struggling with monogamy. By the end of this book, you will have completed the six stages of healing and emerged with a whole heart, a full spirit, and the freedom to love again.
CONTENTS
Acknowledgments ixPreface xiIntroduction 1 Part One. Infidelity as Trauma
11 1.Symptoms of Post-Infidelity Stress Disorder (PISD)
12 Imprisoned in Hurt and Rage 2.Differing Responses of Men and Women to Infidelity
30 The Many Faces of PISD 3.Those Most Vulnerable to Trauma
40 A Heart Close to Breaking 4.Adult Children of Unfaithful Parents
55 The Pain Goes On Part Two. Steps to Recovery from the Trauma
67 5.Stage 1:Calming the Emotional Storm
Finding a SafelÓÕ