The idea that a little hatred can make you feel more alive seems desperately fashionable.

It’s a deeply intriguing topic combining insights from social science research and spiritual teachings.

This notion, while appealing to some aggrieved humans, warrants a closer examination of the underlying physiological and emotional mechanisms at play.

Let’s explore the relationship between hatred, heart rate variability (HRV), and long-term well-being to understand why hate may create a fleeting sense of vitality but ultimately leads to destructive consequences.

Intersectional Feminism has become a widely recognized framework for understanding the multiple layers of oppression that individuals face based on their race, gender, class, and other identities.

While its contributions to social justice are significant, the movement’s focus on individual identity and oppression can sometimes lead to unintended consequences, particularly when viewed through the lens of emerging forms of narcissism, such as communal and pro-social narcissism.

Let’s explore how these dynamics interact. I’ll do my best to temper my critique with an understanding of the complexities involved.

Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning is more than a memoir of survival; it is a manifesto on the human condition, illuminating how we find meaning amidst suffering.

While traditionally examined through the lenses of existential philosophy or psychology, approaching this text as a marriage and family therapist reveals new layers of insight into the dynamics of relationships and the shared quest for purpose.

In the ever-evolving world of parenting, few concepts have garnered as much attention in recent years as "gentle parenting."

This approach, rooted in empathy, respect, and emotional attunement, starkly contrasts more traditional, authoritarian styles.

But as with any cultural shift, it's important to ask: Where did this idea come from, and what does it say about our society today?

Interestingly, gentle parenting emerged against a backdrop of what some have termed Cultural Narcissism.

Let’s examine the timeline of these ideas so we can better understand their rise and the impact they're having on American culture.

Ah, the grand circle of life. Not the one with lions and Elton John soundtracks, but the more human version—the maiden, mother, matriarch.

This isn't just a pretty phrase for a Hallmark card; it's an ancient archetype that's survived the ages, even if it's now being dissected, debated, and, of course, meme-ified by Gen Z.

And who better to weigh in on this than an old white male therapist like myself, nestled in the intellectual cradle of Northampton, Massachusetts, where the feminist winds blow strong and the organic kale is always fresh?

In a recent case study published in the Iranian Journal of Psychiatry, we’re introduced to an unusual character: a man who experiences his orgasms in vivid, technicolor bursts and his chest pain as a bizarre sensation of pure whiteness.

This case offers a truly unique look into the weird and wonderful world of synesthesia—a neurological condition where the boundaries between the senses get so delightfully mixed up, you’d think your brain was hosting a sensory cocktail party.

For those unfamiliar, synesthesia is a rare and fascinating phenomenon where one sense accidentally crashes into another’s territory.

Imagine hearing a song and suddenly seeing colors or reading a book and tasting strawberries.

A new study, recently published in The Journal of Sex Research, sheds light on the surprising connection between different forms of sexism and infidelity among men.

The research reveals that both hostile sexism—blatant negative attitudes towards women—and benevolent sexism—those seemingly well-intentioned but ultimately condescending views—are both strong predictors of cheating.

What's more, many women don't seem to realize that those charming "nice guys" who insist on holding doors and paying for everything might be just as likely to stray as the openly misogynistic types.

As a parent, you've likely asked yourself, "What time should my kid go to bed?" This seemingly simple question can feel like a nightly battleground.

You might be negotiating with a toddler who thinks they’re a night owl or a teenager who insists they’re nocturnal by nature.

Fear not! With the help of social science research, we’ll explore the ideal bedtime for your child and why sleep is so crucial for their development (and your peace of mind).

When it comes to parenting, few questions are as fraught with controversy as whether or not to spank a child.

The question, "Should I spank my kid?" is not just a matter of personal choice; it is steeped in cultural, psychological, and ethical considerations.

Recent social science research offers profound insights into the effects of spanking, challenging long-held beliefs and practices.

This post explores the latest research, the cultural variations in attitudes toward spanking, and the long-term consequences of physical punishment, providing a comprehensive perspective on this complex issue.

Cancer is a life-altering event that affects not just the individual diagnosed but the entire relationship.

Whether you're in your 20s, 50s, or beyond, a cancer diagnosis brings unique challenges that can strain even the strongest relationships.

As a couples therapist, I've worked with a few couples navigating this difficult journey.

By understanding how cancer impacts relationships across different age groups and the specific challenges posed by various types of cancer, couples can develop strategies to face this journey together, emerging stronger and more connected.

Limbic Capitalism operates on a foundational principle: the systematic exploitation of human psychology, particularly the limbic system, to generate profit.

This practice involves more than just creating addictive products; it involves engineering environments, behaviors, and economies that trap both consumers and employees in cycles of dependence and harm.

By investigating the mechanisms, ethical implications, and societal impacts more deeply, we can uncover the true extent of Limbic Capitalism's damage.

Narcissism is a multifaceted personality trait that can manifest in ways that are not always immediately recognizable as self-serving.

Two such variations are communal narcissism and pro-social narcissism.

While both forms involve behaviors that appear outwardly altruistic or cooperative, their motivations and the ways they seek validation are fundamentally different.

This post will delve into these more obscure flavors of narcissism, drawing on social science research to explore their characteristics and impacts.