What is perversion and how can this term still be used? The dynamics of a normal sexual development become fully understandable only through the sexual disorders described by Robert J. Stoller. He distinguishes perversion from other forms of sexual deviation and notes that hatred is the defining characteristic of perversion. This hatred, which is defined by the desire to harm others, is perceived by the perverse individual as an act of revenge. It underlies all perverse actions—whether they remain fantasies or are directly expressed in reality—and always leads to the dehumanization of the sexual object. In this book, Stoller explores the psychological energies that arouse men and women through fascinating examples and cases.