A 106-Year-Old Sex Therapist Reflects on a Century of Wisdom
She overcame sexism to help people enjoy sex.
The year is 1930, and Shirley Zussman arrives at Smith College to study psychology. An innovative new science with little credibility. While women are hoping to snag a husband in one of their classes, Shirley is envisioning a profession. It isn’t until now, with her ambition propelling her forward, that she realizes she is different from her peers.
“I can’t even say that anybody was aware that women were being held back, that was probably part of the problem. They weren’t even aware that there was an alternative for women and that they could have opportunities and make careers for themselves independently.” — Shirley Zussman
Ninety years later, Dr. Zussman is still a practicing sex therapist.
In a recent interview for the Science of Poetry & Love Summit, Zussman reflects on a big problem couples face today and how modern sexuality has morphed over the last 100 years. Though before we jump into her sexy observations, I’d like to share her story. Which is a source of inspiration for women who dare to pursue their passions and make the world a better place.
