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HBO presents

Dr. Perelman
"Sex and the City" Shrink Talk

August 09, 2000

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Hot AE Boy: Why did Carrie have to sleep with Big again? She had it going with the other dude.

Dr. Perelman: I suspect we will have plenty of time to ponder not only whether Carrie should have slept with Mr. Big this past week. Unfortunately, from my perspective, I predict this will neither be the first nor the last time Carrie finds herself sexually involved with this confused, narcissistic, married man. Is she sabotaging herself with this behavior? The answer is, absolutely! Might Big be right for her? Is Aiden the right man for her? The answers to these questions are unclear, but what is certainly clear is that the manner in which she's pursuing the answer is a counterproductive and destructive one. Just another note to our audience, as well as the producers and writers of the show. It is an unfortunate message to have a woman pursued, even by an ex-lover she is obviously still hot for, and have her saying, "No, leave me alone," as he kisses her, not once, but three times, to find "No" turning into a plea for sexual fulfillment. This sends a poor message to men who are already confused by when "No" is supposed to mean "No!" as opposed to, "Try harder and tell me you love me." However, it's television… On a more amusing note, how many of you noticed that poor Carrie, in her confusion, misrepresented some current pop psychology regarding right-brain and left-brain generalizations? It is the left brain that is more concerned with cognitive function, as in linear thinking, than the right brain, which is attributed with more creative and artistic function, such as spatial relations. However, for better or worse, I don't think this was the problem in the elevator or in bed, as Carrie shares not only forbidden fruit with Mr. Big, but a cigarette as well. As I've said, I'm sure there will be more to come. Have a great week, and I look forward to hearing more of your questions next Wednesday.

HBO: Well, tonight's session is over. Thanks for participating, and be sure to join us next Wednesday at 6:30 PM PT to discuss next week's episode of "Sex and the City." In the meantime, you can continue the discussions in the "Sex and the City" chat room or bulletin boards at www.hbo.com/city/community Plus, get the latest on the "Sex and the City" web site at www.hbo.com/city This has been a production of hbo.com and Talk City, Inc. Copyright 2000. All rights reserved.

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