Andrew Mattison

Andrew Mattison (ca 1978)

Andrew Michael Mattison (August 5, 1948 – December 29, 2005) was a medical psychologist and researcher. He performed influential research in both clinical and social aspects of sexology, as well as drug use.[1] He spent the majority of his career as a professor, practicing psychotherapist, and research scientist at the University of California, San Diego.

Mattison received his Ph.D. from United States International University[1] (now Alliant International University) in 1975, with the dissertation Onset of Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetic Males. His best-known book was The Male Couple: How Relationships Develop, coauthored with his partner David McWhirter.[1] The book argued that gay male relationships have particular tendencies distinct from other categories of sexual relationships, an innovative thesis that encouraged the growth of a new field, homosexuality studies. However, the book was also used by anti-gay marriage activists in legal arguments, because it does not use heterosexuality as a model for understanding homosexuality.

Mattison later began studying the use of party drugs by gay men, a controversial subject, which eventually led to a more thorough investigation of drug use in general.[1] In 2000 he cofounded the University of California Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research, of which he was co-director until his death.[2]

He died of stomach cancer at the age of 57.[1]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Coleman, E., & Ross, M. W. (2006). "In memorium: Andrew Michael Mattison, MSW, Ph. D.". Journal of Sex Research 43 (3): 207.
  2. ↑ Williams, Jack (15 January 2006). "Andrew Mattison; researcher, expert on gay relationships". The San Diego Union-Tribune.

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