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.

 

Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

Rapid prenatal brain growth linked to Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of symptoms and challenges that affect children differently.

While some children exhibit mild symptoms that improve over time, others face severe, lifelong difficulties, such as nonverbal communication.

Scientists have long been puzzled by this variability.

However, a groundbreaking study from the University of California-San Diego suggests that the biological roots of these different autism subtypes — mild and severe — begin in the womb.

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Social Media and Relationships Daniel Dashnaw Social Media and Relationships Daniel Dashnaw

The surge in digital self-harm among teens: understanding this alarming trend

What is the rising phenomenon of digital self-harm?

In today's digital era, where social media shapes teenage lives, a troubling trend has emerged, catching the attention of parents and educators alike.

Digital self-harm, where teens anonymously post harmful content about themselves online, has seen a dramatic rise.

Since 2016, there's been an alarming 88% increase in this behavior among American teenagers. What’s going on?

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Marriage and Mental Health Daniel Dashnaw Marriage and Mental Health Daniel Dashnaw

Uncovering 6 distinct types of depression for personalized treatment

Depression and anxiety disorders are pervasive mental health challenges, but their treatment often falls short due to the diversity in symptoms and brain dysfunctions among patients.

Researchers at Stanford University have made a significant breakthrough by identifying six unique "biotypes" of depression and anxiety, using advanced brain imaging and computational techniques.

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Family Life and Parenting Daniel Dashnaw Family Life and Parenting Daniel Dashnaw

The impact of active fatherhood on child development

The early years of a child's life are critical in laying the foundation for their overall growth and well-being.

Quality time spent with parents during these formative stages can lead to significant positive outcomes.

Recent research from Japan highlights the crucial role of a father’s involvement in enhancing their child’s mental and physical development.

Simply put, active and engaged fathers contribute to raising well-rounded children.

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Signs of Trouble Daniel Dashnaw Signs of Trouble Daniel Dashnaw

How Narcissism changes over time: insights from recent research

We’ve all met that person who constantly talks about themselves, believes they’re superior to everyone else, and craves admiration.

These are hallmark traits of narcissism, a personality characteristic that's received a lot of attention recently. But how does narcissism evolve with age?

New research offers some surprising insights, indicating that these traits may become less pronounced as folks grow older.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

What is auADHD?

auDHD is an abbreviation combining "autism" and "ADHD" (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), referring to folks who have both of these neurodevelopmental conditions simultaneously.

While autism and ADHD are often seen as separate diagnoses, recent research indicates a significant overlap between the two in terms of symptoms and genetic factors.

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Signs of Trouble Daniel Dashnaw Signs of Trouble Daniel Dashnaw

Do I Have Childhood Trauma Quiz

Understanding your past can be a crucial step in healing and personal growth. This quiz is designed to help you explore potential childhood trauma.

Inspired by the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study, this quiz will guide you through a series of questions to evaluate your experiences.

Remember, this quiz is not a substitute for professional advice but can be a starting point for understanding your history.

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Separation & Divorce Daniel Dashnaw Separation & Divorce Daniel Dashnaw

Is Emotional abuse grounds for divorce?

When we think of grounds for divorce, physical abuse or infidelity often come to mind.

However, emotional abuse is equally damaging and, in many cases, justifies ending a marriage.

This guide delves into the intricacies of emotional abuse, its impact on intimate partners, and why it can indeed be grounds for divorce.

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Separation & Divorce Daniel Dashnaw Separation & Divorce Daniel Dashnaw

When is Divorce Mediation not recommended?

Divorce mediation is often hailed as a less adversarial and more cost-effective way to dissolve a marriage.

However, there are situations where mediation may not be the best option.

As a science-based couples therapist, it is essential to recognize the scenarios where divorce mediation may not be recommended, ensuring the process is both fair and effective.

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What Happy Couples Know Daniel Dashnaw What Happy Couples Know Daniel Dashnaw

Do people really learn from their mistakes?

The Common Belief in Learning from Mistakes

There is a pervasive belief in the power of failure to teach valuable lessons. Business leaders often promote this notion, which is echoed in popular media.

It is a robust American trope.

The idea is that while failure is challenging, it ultimately fuels success.

However, recent research paints a different picture: people generally struggle to learn from their mistakes.

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