Guide To Getting It On by Paul Joannides

The most celebrated, candid, and comprehensive guide to human sexuality — used in dozens of college sex-ed courses and praised by Rolling Stone, Playboy, and Oprah Magazine.

  • Trusted by educators, researchers, and curious readers worldwide
  • Now in its 10th edition — fully updated with modern perspectives
  • Written by research psychoanalyst Paul Joannides, Psy.D.
Explore the Book

Explore Guide To Getting It On

Choose from available editions of Paul Joannides’s landmark book on human sexuality — from earlier printings to the fully revised 10th edition.

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Guide To Getting It On — Earlier Edition

A cornerstone edition of Paul Joannides’s comprehensive guide, beloved by college students and educators alike for its frank, accessible approach to human sexuality.

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Guide To Getting It On — 10th Edition

The fully updated 10th edition features Paul Joannides’s latest research and expanded coverage, making it the most current and thorough version of this celebrated book.

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Related Reading on Human Sexuality and Relationships

If you enjoy Guide To Getting It On, you may also find value in these closely related categories of books and educational resources:

  • Sex Education Textbooks — Academic texts designed for college-level human sexuality courses, often used alongside Joannides’s guide.
  • Relationship Psychology Books — Works by research psychoanalysts and therapists exploring intimacy, communication, and partnership.
  • Health and Wellness Guides — Comprehensive references covering sexual health, anatomy, and reproductive wellbeing for general audiences.
  • LGBTQ+ Inclusive Sexuality Resources — Books that reflect the full spectrum of gender identity and sexual orientation, a hallmark of Joannides’s inclusive approach.
  • Paul Joannides’s Video and Media Content — The author also produces sex-education videos that complement the book for classroom and personal use.

Inside the Book

Paul Joannides, Psy.D., spent years researching and writing Guide To Getting It On to create a resource that is both scientifically grounded and warmly human. Unlike dry clinical texts, the book uses clear, conversational language to explore topics that many people find difficult to discuss openly.

Honest, Inclusive Coverage

The book addresses sexuality across gender identities and orientations, ensuring readers of all backgrounds see themselves reflected in its pages.

Adopted in College Courses

Dozens of universities use Guide To Getting It On as a required or recommended text in human sexuality and health education programs.

Praised by Major Publications

Rolling Stone, Playboy, and Oprah Magazine have all recognized the book’s unique ability to inform and reassure readers about the full range of human experience.

Research-Backed Writing

As a research psychoanalyst, Joannides grounds every chapter in credible science while maintaining an approachable, even playful, tone throughout.

How to Read This Book

Make the most of Guide To Getting It On with this simple five-step approach — whether you are picking it up for the first time or returning to a new edition.

Five-step process for guide to getting it onStep-by-step infographic: 01 Choose Your Edition; 02 Set Your Intention; 03 Read by Chapter; 04 Revisit Key Sections; 05 Share and Discuss.STEP01Choose YourEditionSTEP02Set YourIntentionSTEP03Read byChapterSTEP04Revisit KeySectionsSTEP05Share andDiscuss
  1. 01

    Choose Your Edition

    Decide between the earlier print edition and the current 10th edition. The 10th edition contains the most up-to-date research and expanded chapters, making it the best starting point for new readers. Earlier editions remain valuable references and may be more affordable.

  2. 02

    Set Your Intention

    Before you begin, consider what you want to get from the book. Whether you are a student studying for a course, an educator building a curriculum, or a curious individual seeking honest information, Guide To Getting It On rewards purposeful reading.

  3. 03

    Read by Chapter

    The book is organized thematically, allowing you to jump to topics most relevant to you or read straight through from beginning to end. Joannides’s conversational tone makes even dense topics feel approachable, so do not feel pressure to rush through any section.

  4. 04

    Revisit Key Sections

    Many readers return to specific chapters over time as their questions and experiences evolve. Treat the book as an ongoing reference rather than a one-time read. Marking pages or taking notes helps you build a personal guide within the guide.

  5. 05

    Share and Discuss

    Because the book is used widely in classroom settings, it lends itself naturally to discussion. Share insights with a partner, a study group, or a health educator. Opening conversations around the topics in Guide To Getting It On is precisely the kind of outcome the author intends.

Guide To Getting It On — Reader Reviews

Readers, students, and educators consistently highlight the book’s honesty, warmth, and practical depth.

Essential for Every Bookshelf

This book covers topics that most resources either ignore or handle awkwardly. Paul Joannides manages to be thorough and approachable at the same time. I have recommended it to friends, family members, and colleagues. It deserves its reputation as a go-to reference.

— Verified Reader

A Course Staple for Good Reason

As a health educator, I have assigned this book for years. Students consistently report that it answers questions they were too embarrassed to ask in class. The 10th edition updates make it even more relevant to contemporary audiences. Highly recommended for any sex-ed curriculum.

— Health Educator

Honest, Inclusive, and Genuinely Helpful

What sets this book apart is its inclusive approach. It does not assume a particular identity or experience, making every reader feel seen. The writing is warm without being preachy, and the information is grounded in real research. I return to it regularly and learn something new each time.

— Long-Time Reader

About the Author

Paul Joannides, Psy.D. is a research psychoanalyst, author, and — in a uniquely personal touch — llama farmer. He devoted years to researching and writing Guide To Getting It On, a book that has become a trusted resource in dozens of college sex-education courses across the country.

The book has earned praise from major media outlets including Rolling Stone, Playboy, and Oprah Magazine, a reflection of its crossover appeal to both academic and general audiences. Now in its 10th edition, the guide continues to evolve with current research and reflects Joannides’s commitment to honest, inclusive, and humane writing about human sexuality.

Beyond the book, Joannides produces sex-education video content designed to complement classroom learning and extend the conversations that Guide To Getting It On begins on the page. His work consistently prioritizes reader curiosity, respect, and dignity above all else.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Guide To Getting It On?

It is a comprehensive, research-backed book on human sexuality written by Paul Joannides, Psy.D. First published decades ago and now in its 10th edition, it is widely used in college sex-education courses and praised for its honest, inclusive, and approachable writing style.

Who is Paul Joannides?

Paul Joannides is a research psychoanalyst and author based in the United States. He is best known for Guide To Getting It On and also produces sex-education video content. He has been recognized by Rolling Stone, Playboy, and Oprah Magazine for his contributions to sexual health education.

Which edition should I buy?

The 10th edition is the most current and contains the latest research and expanded content. Earlier editions remain valuable and may suit readers on a budget. Both editions are available through the links on this page.

Is the book appropriate for classroom use?

Yes. Guide To Getting It On is used as a required or recommended text in dozens of college human sexuality courses. Educators appreciate its scientific grounding, inclusive perspective, and accessible writing style.

Is there a digital or Kindle edition available?

Yes, a Kindle edition is available in addition to the print version. Both formats can be found through the product links on this page. Check current pricing and availability for each format.