ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book describes the classical literature on erotic perversions retains clinical relevance, with the major and important exception of designating homosexuality as a pathological condition and diagnostic category. A perverse mode of relating is a fantastically construed retreat from relationality in an effort to construct a self-contained and constricted one-person universe. The sexual gratification that may accompany the perverse scenario usually becomes a conscious and self-reinforcing feedback loop; however, the fantasy itself is often dystonic and restricts the individual's functioning. The perversion of the psychoanalytic process, largely aimed at corrupting the profession itself, is brought about by using the very means of healing in order to exploit and harm rather than heal, and to do so in a sometimes flagrant manner.
