During an age of profound self-absorption, cognitive biases play an enormous role in relationship dynamics, often leading to miscommunication, conflict, and resentment.

When these biases are amplified by cultural narcissism, particularly prevalent in American society, the effects can be even more pronounced.

Let’s consider a few of cognitive biases, how they manifest in relationships, and how Cultural Narcissism emerges as a force multiplier.

While conventional wisdom has long touted compassion as the secret sauce for relationship success, this study flips the script.

The traditional narrative tells us that couples who shower each other with compassion are happier, more caring, and more committed.

They're the ones who cancel plans to be with their partner, write love notes on the bathroom mirror, and remember to pick up their partner's favorite snacks.

But hold onto your hats, folks, because this study suggests that not everyone is on board with this lovey-dovey approach.

One phenomenon that continues to captivate my interest is the notion of Benign Narcissism.

This term, which used to describe the ability to straddle the line between healthy self-regard and destructive self-obsession, is particularly relevant in the context of American culture.

Let’s consider some of the dynamics of Benign Narcissism and its cultural manifestations and implications for individuals and society.

Divorce is rarely easy, but when your partner is a psychopath, the process can become exponentially more challenging.

Psychopaths, with their lack of empathy, manipulative tendencies, and propensity for causing emotional havoc, present unique hurdles that require strategic planning and a strong support system.

Let’s consider how to go about divorcing a psychopath. Yeah, I’ll discuss the narcissists too…

Welcome to the 21st century, where your smartphone is your new best friend, and your digital cart is always ready for some action.

As a marriage and family therapist, I've seen the strains that shopping addiction can place on relationships.

So today, let's focus on the folks who can't resist the siren call of a good deal.

Online shopping addiction isn't just about the thrill of the purchase; it's a complex dance with dopamine, the brain's feel-good chemical.

Narcissism is a term often tossed around casually, but when it comes to Malignant Narcissism, we're delving into a much darker and more complex territory.

In the realm of Malignant Narcissists, there are two primary types: Overt and Covert.

Each type presents its own unique challenges and requires different strategies for coping and understanding.

In the field of Marriage and Family Therapy, few conditions are as complex and destructive as Malignant Narcissism.

As a couples therapist, I've witnessed the profound impact this personality disorder can have on relationships, families, and individuals.

Understanding the dynamics of a Malignant Narcissist is essential for anyone trying to navigate the tumultuous waters of such a relationship.

Let’s briefly overview the characteristics, behaviors, and impacts of Malignant Narcissism, all while reflecting on broader questions about the direction of the human experiment.

In this post, I’ll describe both the 5 traits of a covert narcissist as well as subtypes and how these traits show up in marriage.

We’ll talk about why the covert narcissist is so hard to recognize because their wives complain that they appear so “nice” and “humble” and even anxious to please.

They seem to care about what other people think of them and they appear so helpful, and yet the Covert Narcissist is just a less happy and more complicated version of the NPD.

Welcome, gentle readers, to a guide that might just save your sanity (and your marriage)!

As a couples therapist, I've seen my fair share of narcissistic behavior, especially the sneaky kind.

Covert Narcissists can be charming on the surface but manipulative underneath, making them tricky to spot.

But fear not, I'm here to help you navigate these murky waters with 26 telltale signs that your spouse might be a Covert Narcissist.

Entraining a narcissist refers to the process of synchronizing their behavior, thoughts, or emotions with those of another person or a group.

This concept is often used in the context of managing or influencing the behavior of someone with narcissistic traits.

Here's a more detailed explanation…

An induced conversation by a narcissist refers to a dialogue that a narcissist orchestrates to manipulate, control, or achieve a specific goal.

Narcissists often employ various tactics to steer conversations in ways that serve their interests or reinforce their self-image.

Toxic, Narcissistic men are quite predictable once you carefully study them.

In a narcissistic relationship, disengage and stop offering your attention.

Shut it down hard. Be superficial Don’t share what matters most to you. Don’t plead for fairness.

Here are 8 ways to distance your heart and soul as needed.