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Does wisdom protect against loneliness?
Research reveals that wisdom can significantly protect against loneliness.
Wise humans thrive on diverse viewpoints and are often sought after for their advice. Additionally, they possess the ability to filter negative emotions and make timely decisions.
But what does that have to do with loneliness?
Why parents should think twice before telling ‘little white lies’ to Kids
As a marriage and family therapist, I am often asked to discuss the latest research on parenting and the impact of parental behavior on children.
New research shows that lying to children can have unintended consequences, leading to increased dishonest behavior from the children themselves.
10 breakthrough treatments for depression most folks have never tried
As a couples therapist, I understand that depression can have a profound impact on relationships, affecting not just the individual but their partner and the dynamics between them.
Clinical depression affects around 350 million people worldwide, yet only a small fraction receive the best care.
Here, I'll outline 10 new, scientifically backed treatments for depression, emphasizing their potential benefits for folks within a relationship context.
The 4 Pillars of Intimacy in Couples Therapy
The best couples therapy dives deep into the human condition, beyond just treating symptoms.
It embraces life's uncertainties and absurdities, encouraging us to face our freedom, isolation, mortality, and quest for meaning.
This journey isn't easy; it demands honesty, courage, and a willingness to truly know oneself.
All in pursuit of reclaiming intimacy in a marriage…
Split-self affairs
In the Split-Self Affair, the marriage must work for the sake of appearances, and appearance is everything.
These unions seamlessly function because they avoid the challenging work of nurturing a loving, emotional connection.
What is the Zeigarnik effect?
The Zeigarik Effect impacted couples therapy by suggesting that attachment injuries, such as regrettable incidents, and the equally regrettable resentments which follow, are “undelivered plates” which loiter in the kitchen sink of memory.
Collect too many of these undelivered plates, and your kitchen is one inconsolable mess…
Maximizing Motivation
Whether you’re aiming to excel in your career, improve your health, or achieve personal goals, maintaining momentum can feel like an uphill battle.
But fear not, gentle reader!
Here are 20 powerful psychological strategies to help you stay motivated.
From mindset changes and practice improvement tips to goal-setting hacks and social motivation, these methods are backed by research in the psychology of motivation. Dive in and discover how to turn your dreams into reality!
Cognitive biases in relationships
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.
Not all couples thrive on compassion: Study reveals some partners prefer selfishness
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.
9 Predictable Challenges in Neurodivergent Relationships
Neurodiverse couples, where one or both partners are on the autism spectrum or have other neurodivergent traits like ADHD, being twice-exceptional, (or just being wicked smart), often face unique, sometimes hilarious challenges that can impact their relationships.
Let’s explore the top 9 issues and sprinkle in some storytelling along the way.
What is Benign Narcissism?
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.
Working Memory: Neuro Normative and Neurodivergent Minds
Working memory, the brain's temporary storage system, is like a mental sticky note for tasks at hand.
It helps us hold and manipulate information for a short period, enabling us to perform complex cognitive tasks like learning, reasoning, and understanding.
However, working memory is not one-size-fits-all.
Its capacity and efficiency can vary significantly between neurotypical and neurodiverse folks.
Let’s consider some of these differences, and discuss brain hacks and interventions.