Member Reviews

**Book Review: "Compersion: The Joy of Sharing Love" by Dr. Marie Thouin**

In "Compersion: The Joy of Sharing Love," Dr. Marie Thouin offers a groundbreaking exploration of an often-overlooked emotional landscape within consensually non-monogamous (CNM) relationships. Challenging the traditional notions of jealousy as the primary response to intimacy, Thouin invites readers to consider compersion—a term that embodies the joy one feels when witnessing a partner's happiness with someone else.

This book is a thoughtful blend of research, personal stories, and practical insights that makes it accessible to both CNM practitioners and those simply curious about relational diversity. Dr. Thouin's background in psychology lends authority to her findings, as she meticulously unravels the complexities surrounding compersion. Each chapter is enriched with compelling narratives from real individuals who share their experiences, making the theory come alive and relatable.

One of the book's key strengths is its comprehensive model of compersion, which explores not just what compersion is, but how it can be cultivated. Dr. Thouin delves into the emotions and behaviors that underlie this concept, offering readers actionable steps to invite more of it into their lives. This practical roadmap is especially valuable for those looking to foster deeper connections in their relationships, regardless of their structure.

Moreover, the broader social context that Thouin addresses is both timely and necessary. By framing compersion as a tool for dismantling jealousy and promoting relational freedom, she positions it as a crucial element in the ongoing conversation about love, intimacy, and acceptance in diverse relationship dynamics. This perspective has implications not only for individuals in CNM but also for therapists, counselors, and scholars engaged in discussions about modern love and ethics.

The writing is engaging and approachable, making complex psychological concepts digestible without sacrificing depth. Dr. Thouin's compassionate tone resonates throughout, encouraging readers to embrace the potential for radical love and empathy in their own lives.

In conclusion, "Compersion: The Joy of Sharing Love" is an essential read for anyone interested in expanding their understanding of love and relationships. It challenges preconceived notions and opens the door to a more nuanced view of emotional connections. Dr. Thouin’s work is a vital contribution to the fields of psychology and sexuality studies, and it offers invaluable insights that can benefit anyone seeking to cultivate a more inclusive and joyful approach to love. Highly recommended!

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This book and its conclusions have profound implications for many fields of study and practice including psychology, sexuality studies, philosophy and ethics, and law. Indispensable for CNM individuals, therapists, counselors, and scholars, this book is also invaluable for anyone curious to learn about positive empathy, intentional relationships, and radical love.

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This was super super academic, but if that's what you're looking for, I think you'll enjoy it. As I was reading this, I realized I'm not as interested in the tiny details of psychology around compersion, so it became a bit of a slog for me. However, it's clearly well written and well researched, so if you're looking for a very academic lens on the topic, this will be perfect for you!

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