Long-distance relationships (LDRs) present a unique set of challenges that can test even the strongest bonds.

However, the notion that distance is inherently detrimental to a relationship is increasingly being challenged by social science research.

In this deep dive, we'll explore the critical factors that make long-distance relationships not just viable but potentially even stronger than geographically close relationships.

Let’s examine the underlying psychological and relational dynamics in play that inform how couples can develop strategies that turn distance into an advantage.

Welcome to the future, where your biggest relationship threat might not be another person but an AI that knows your partner's favorite song, their grocery list, and—let’s be honest—more about your partner’s mood swings than you do.

Yes, I’m talking about the subtle yet sneaky influence of AI on emotional intimacy in relationships.

As a science-based couples therapist, I’ve seen it all, but the idea of AI becoming a side chick in relationships? Now that’s something new.

Many Hollywood women have debunked the myth that being alone equates to loneliness through their lives and public statements.

These women have embraced solitude as a time for self-discovery, empowerment, and fulfillment, showing that independence can be a source of strength rather than a sign of deficiency.

Why is human intimacy so profoundly disappointing?

As traditional values and societal norms continue to evolve, new relationship models such as relationship anarchy and polyamory have gained attention.

These philosophies offer alternatives to the conventional monogamous framework, encouraging individuals to redefine love and commitment.

However, from a conservative perspective, these models raise important questions about the long-term implications for individuals, families, and society as a whole.

This post critically examines relationship anarchy and polyamory, exploring their potential consequences through a more traditional lens.

The term “Relationship Escalator Rejection” is one of those modern polyamorous memes that have gained traction among those who find the traditional path of relationships a bit too… predictable.

You know the drill: you meet someone, date, move in together, get married, maybe pop out a couple of kids, and settle into a life of blissful monotony (or at least, that’s the idealized version).

The “relationship escalator” is what some call this linear progression. But, for those who reject it, life is apparently a lot more exciting—or chaotic, depending on your perspective.

Let’s talk about Emotional Bandwidth Management with multiple partners..

Polyamory, at least in its idealized form, is often presented as a boundless landscape where love flows freely between multiple partners.

It’s a vision of relationships unshackled by monogamous norms, offering infinite possibilities for connection, growth, and intimacy.

But beneath this utopian image lies a reality that’s far less glamorous—one that involves a limited resource that no amount of love can stretch: emotional bandwidth.

The concept of "self-partnering," popularized by figures like Emma Watson, represents a profound shift in how individuals approach intimate relationships in the USA.

This trend transcends traditional notions of singlehood, emphasizing a conscious decision to focus on personal growth, self-care, and autonomy.

As cultural norms evolve, self-partnering challenges established paradigms of fulfillment, happiness, and commitment, quietly redefining the landscape of intimate relationships.

Compersion is a notion of polyamory advocates, hailed as the antidote to jealousy—a state of enlightened bliss where you’re genuinely happy to see your partner enjoying romantic or sexual experiences with someone else.

It’s the magical potion that supposedly transforms human nature from its possessive, insecure roots into something resembling unconditional love... or so we’re told.

As a marriage and family therapist, I’ve seen how early experiences profoundly shape a child’s emotional and psychological development.

In our increasingly digital world, one of the most concerning trends is the use of screens as a tool for managing children’s emotions.

While it may be tempting to hand a child a tablet or smartphone to calm them during a tantrum, emerging research suggests that this practice could have serious long-term consequences for their emotional growth.

The Research: Screens as Emotional Pacifiers

In today’s hyper-connected world, the notion of a “loneliness epidemic” within marriages might seem paradoxical.

After all, we’re constantly in touch, right?

Yet, many couples report feeling more disconnected than ever, living side by side but existing in emotional silos.

But is this really an epidemic of loneliness, or have we, like the mythical Lotus-Eaters, been lulled into a state of complacency by the siren song of technology and convenience?

Perhaps it’s not that we’re isolated, but rather that we’ve become too distracted—too lazy, even—to invest in the connections that truly matter.

In an age where communication is increasingly digital, the concept of a family group chat has emerged as a modern-day hub for connection, coordination, and camaraderie.

The names we assign to these chats can reveal much about family dynamics, roles, and even humor.

This article explores the significance of family group chat names, drawing on social science research, the insights of family therapy pioneer Virginia Satir, and the broader implications of digital communication in family life.

In this post, I’ll pay homage to the family group chat—a place where modern technology meets the timeless chaos of family dynamics.

If you've ever tried to mediate a family group chat as a marriage and family therapist, you'll understand that it’s like a circus on fire.

Let’s take a humorous dive into the wild world of family group chats and explore how Whitaker and Jay Haley's brilliant ideas can help us not just survive but thrive in this digital arena. Strap in—this ride’s about to get bumpy.