Eustace Chesser

Eustace Chesser

Eustace Chesser (1902–1973) was a notable British psychologist, author, and physician known for his contributions to sexual education, marriage counseling, and the study of human sexuality. Throughout his career, Chesser advocated for a more open discussion of sexual matters, challenging the taboos of his time. His work played a significant role in the liberalization of attitudes towards sex in the mid-20th century.

Early Life and Education

Eustace Chesser was born in 1902 in London, England. He pursued his education in medicine, recognizing early on the importance of psychological aspects in the field of healthcare. After obtaining his medical degree, Chesser specialized in psychiatry, a field that allowed him to explore the complexities of human behavior and sexuality.

Career

Chesser's career was marked by his dedication to understanding human sexuality and promoting a healthier societal attitude towards it. He worked as a General Practitioner (GP) before focusing on psychiatry and sexual counseling. Chesser was among the first in the British medical community to address sexual problems within the context of marriage counseling, emphasizing the importance of sexual compatibility and satisfaction in marital relationships.

He wrote extensively on the subject of human sexuality, authoring several influential books. His works, including titles such as Love and Marriage, The Sexual, Marital, and Family Relationships of the English Woman, and Growing Up Sexually, were groundbreaking at the time. These books not only offered insights into sexual behavior and psychology but also provided practical advice for individuals and couples.

Advocacy and Legacy

Chesser was a vocal advocate for sexual education, arguing that ignorance was a major cause of sexual dysfunction and unhappiness. He believed in the importance of providing young people with accurate information about sex, advocating for sex education in schools at a time when the subject was considered taboo.

His advocacy extended to challenging the laws and societal norms that restricted the discussion and publication of sexual knowledge. Chesser's work contributed to the gradual shift in public attitudes towards sex, paving the way for more open discussions and the liberalization of laws concerning sexual content in publications and media.

Death and Impact

Eustace Chesser passed away in 1973, but his contributions to the field of human sexuality and marriage counseling continue to be recognized. He is remembered as a pioneer who challenged societal norms and worked tirelessly to promote a healthier, more open dialogue about sex.

His legacy is evident in the continued importance placed on sexual education and the more liberal attitudes towards sex that have become prevalent in many societies. Chesser's work remains relevant, as discussions about sexual health and happiness continue to evolve.

Selected Works

• Love and Marriage
• The Sexual, Marital, and Family Relationships of the English Woman
• Growing Up Sexually