The Single Woman-Married Man Syndrome

Many single womanmarried man relationships are characterized by such recognizable, even stereotypic, interactions and run such a predictable course as to constitute a genuine syndrome. Documenting the existence of this syndrome with case histories from inside and outside clinical practice, Dr. Tuch gives serious consideration to the complex dynamics involved and offers a framework to help patients struggling with their involvement in such affairs. A broader discussion of relations between men and women evolves and addresses such issues as men's dread of women; women's unique inclinations to employ masochistic adaptations in their relations with men; married couples' varied styles of dealing with their differences; the relationship of power and control to the processes of domination, submission, and the act of surrendering; and the development of the capacity to fall and remain in love.

Richard Tuch, M.D. is a Training and Supervising Analyst at the Los Angeles Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California at Los Angeles, and Attending Psychiatrist at the Cedar-Sinai Medical Center.