Welcome to my Blog

Thank you for stopping by. This space is where I share research, reflections, and practical tools drawn from my experience as a marriage and family therapist.

Are you a couple looking for clarity? A professional curious about the science of relationships? Or simply someone interested in how love and resilience work? I’m glad you’ve found your way here. I can help with that.

Each post is written with one goal in mind: to help you better understand yourself, your partner, and the hidden dynamics that shape human connection.

Grab a coffee (or a notebook), explore what speaks to you, and take what’s useful back into your life and relationships. And if a post sparks a question, or makes you realize you could use more support, I’d love to hear from you.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
~Daniel

P.S.

Feel free to explore the categories below to find past blog posts on the topics that matter most to you. If you’re curious about attachment, navigating conflict, or strengthening intimacy, these archives are a great way to dive deeper into the research and insights that I’ve been sharing for years.

 

Are some breakups thwarted by altruism? The surprising truth about staying in unhappy relationships

Have you ever stayed in a relationship just because you thought your partner couldn’t handle a breakup? Turns out, you’re not alone—and there’s scientific research to back you up!

According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, people often stay in unhappy relationships when they believe their partner might crumble without them.

Yes, it sounds like a plot twist in a romantic comedy, but it’s true!

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How do women flirt? …. the science!

When it comes to flirting, women have a secret weapon that men can instantly recognize.

This isn't just an ordinary smile or a neutral expression—it's a special look that sparks interest and sets off relationship fireworks.

According to researchers, the most effective flirting expression includes a head turned to one side, tilted down slightly, accompanied by a slight smile and eye contact.

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What is Portia Polygamy?

"Portia polygamy" is a term that's not often heard, so let's explore its meaning a bit more.

Portia polygamy describes the pattern of engaging in multiple, successive marriages.

The name evokes the idea of a series of marital relationships, much like the character Portia in Shakespeare's play, who navigates various complex relationships, albeit without multiple marriages.

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The Romantic Revolution: Unveiling the Depths of Online Dating

The University of Chicago's magnum opus, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science halls, unveils a truth that defies conventional wisdom.

Couples who meet online are happier and less likely to part ways—a testament to the transformative power of pixels and algorithms.

Why does online dating lead to better marriages?

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How intimate relationships impact our physical health…

The impact of our closest relationships on our physical health is significant, with both positive and negative experiences playing crucial roles.

Research indicates that folks who experience more negative interactions and hold more negative perceptions about their closest relationships tend to have worse physical health outcomes.

This includes higher stress levels, increased blood pressure reactivity (a sign of poor health), and greater difficulties coping with daily challenges.

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What are the 2 most common personality changes between 18 and 40?

Research suggests that our goals in life evolve alongside our personalities.

A common trend observed between 18 and 40 is a shift towards greater agreeableness and conscientiousness.

Agreeable humans are characterized by their friendliness, warmth, and tactfulness, often prioritizing others' feelings.

Conversely, conscientious folks exhibit self-discipline and strive for achievement.

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The problem of Passive-Aggressive nice guys…

Passive Aggression is incredibly annoying in intimate relationships.

With effort, a passive-aggressive personality disorder can learn to engage more directly.

But it is a team effort. You both can change how you respond to each other. It will take some work.

Here are some suggestions that are both sensible and specific…

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