| Abstract: | Cases were analyzed and discussed in which couples had autonomy but not intimacy, pseudointimacy but not autonomy, and both intimacy and autonomy. Guidelines for establishing intimate autonomy were proffered, and psychotherapeutic intervention for couples dysfunctional for intimate autonomy was discussed. The guidelines included having mutual respect for the partner's individuality, mutual areas of interest, basic philosophical agreement, desire to share with the partner, wanting the ultimate good for the partner, and accepting what is unchangeable in the self and the partner. The myth and reality of intimate autonomy are examined. |
