Description: Attempting to bridge the epistemological gaps between "positivist" and "post-modern" approaches to theoretical models of sexual behavior, this book brings together essays and discussion by scholars representing a range of viewpoints and contrasting theoretical approaches. The essays examine four areas: sexuality through the life cycle, sexual orientation, individual differences in sexual risk taking, and adolescent sexual behavior. Among the many themes that emerge are "how theory is used", the "individual" versus "culture", "insider" versus "outsider" knowledge, the relationship between theory and policy, and the potential "political" consequences of theoretical perspectives. Several of the key bridges that need to be built are identified in the course of this book. Perhaps, as one contributor suggests, that type of bridge building will only result when people from the contrasting epistemological camps share a common purpose and work together in achieving it.

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