©1998, Baker Books, 281 pp., pbk.

The topic of homosexuality continues to generate much discussion today. Basic to the discussion are presuppositions as to the morality or immorality of homosexuality. Is it genetic? Is it an illness? Can one cease to be homosexual?

Dr. Satinover had practiced psychoanalysis and psychiatry for over two decades at the time he wrote this book. He has been professionally involved with homosexuals since the days when AIDS was originally called GRID (gay-related immune disorder). He approaches the subject of homosexuality well aware of the three points of contention in this debate: '1. Homosexuality is normal 2. Homosexuality is innate, or inherited and 3. Homosexuality is irreversible.' (p. 71)

He recounts how those who favored normalizing the homosexual lifestyle worked through professional groups such as the American Psychological Association to achieve their agenda. He integrates the results of many studies as he shows that scientific studies do not show that homosexuality is normal behavior or that it is a desirable lifestyle. Public sentiment has been shaped by other factors.

Santinover shows how homosexuality grows out of man's fallen nature. Thus this cultural issue is not medical but spiritual. He points readers to this after he has devoted a chapter to factors that can influence the development of homosexual behavioral patterns, and a chapter to the existence or lack thereof of a gene that could cause homosexuality.

Believing the behavioral patter to be spiritually related, he believes that the lifestyle is reversible. He believes those involved must turn to the Judeo-Christian ethic. He briefly examines a number of ministries that operate from this framework. Although there are some secular programs that have evidenced change, he believes that therapies that are rooted in a Judeo-Christian ethic offer the best hope. Yet we as a society are abandoning this ethic for a popular morality.

The author does not stress Christ's atoning work and the individual's repentance as the foundation in religious treatment. He focuses more on the fact that man has a fallen nature yet remains a creature of God. He is to live within the boundaries including sexual boundaries that God has established.

This book remains relevant today. The authority writes forthrightly with clarity, insight, and compassion. He is unafraid to go against the cultural grain when evidence does not sustain popular thought. This book provides help for those entering domains where the normalcy of a homosexual lifestyle is accepted. It will also help individuals who are prone to give in to current cultural attitudes regarding homosexual practice.

©2010 Byron Snapp, Hampton,Virginia