conflict

Sometimes, a relationship with a parent reaches a breaking point. Maybe your mom just doesn’t seem to hear you, no matter how many times you try to explain. Maybe your dad’s constant political remarks leave you feeling frustrated or unheard every time you talk. Or perhaps you’ve tried to open…

We’re all familiar with the silent frustration of another meeting (that could have been an email) popping up on our calendar. What’s less clear? Knowing when our reaction to an irritating situation is healthy and when it enters the territory of anger issues.  “Ultimately, anger isn’t the problem, it’s often…

Does your mom depend on you for her emotional well-being? Does your partner prioritize a parent’s needs over yours—or your kids’? Do you feel like your parent’s expectations dictate your decisions—or that you’re “letting them down” when you do things your way? If any of this sounds familiar, you might…

Your identity represents the core of who you are and how you see yourself in the world. It might guide your decision-making process, how you handle life challenges, and how you prioritize your time. So, what happens if you lose your sense of self or begin to question your identity? …

Fathers are a big part of our lives, as they raise us and teach us about life — both directly and indirectly. There’s a lot to love about our fathers, but they are often also someone with great potential to do us emotional harm. As research shows, having a strong…

Communication is a key part of any relationship, but when talking about conflict or charged topics, it can be difficult to get one’s point across without starting an argument. However, there is a helpful tool that can be used to diffuse situations and keep conversations civil and productive—“I” statements. Often…

People-pleasing, a behavior where individuals prioritize the needs and desires of others over their own, can have far-reaching implications for mental health and relationships. Those who engage in people-pleasing often find themselves in a relentless pursuit of approval and acceptance, going to great lengths to avoid conflict or the discomfort…

Q: I’m looking for more information specifically strategies for dealing with avoidance with my wife when dealing with conflict, disagreements, or issues that make me uncomfortable. When in those moments I have a tendency to freeze up and we are expecting a child, our due date was Friday the 24th….

In the 1960s, “don’t trust anyone over the age of 30” was a common phrase among young people as they clashed with their elders. Social upheavals, gender role-bending, and even global violence were visceral themes that influenced politics, educational systems, fashion, music, film, and more. Every step toward the new…