Reconnecting

The author provides insights and guidance on how to take individual responsibility for one's relationship struggles. The self-coaching methods he suggests help people see how their insecurities can lead to endless cycles of control, criticism, and ultimately not getting the love they want. The techniques are drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, which encourages self-examination, insight, and careful management of how we act and communicate. Luciani says that taking these initiatives helps us become catalysts for change, rather than blaming and staying tangled in conflict. His diagnostic questionnaires are helpful, but they stay narrowly focused on how individuals handle insecurity, anxiety, compulsions, and depression. Though the author's documentary-like reading voice is easy to understand, his assertive and often-self-promoting tone will make it difficult for many people to be open to his ideas. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine