Couples all too often, when reflecting on an argument, say “It was about nothing,” or it’s over “just the little things.” It’s certainly true that many relationship conflicts don’t revolve around the bigger issues such as financial disagreements, parenting differences, or sexuality issues. While some arguments appear to be about nothing, are they truly not […]
What’s that Fight Really About? Read More »
Imagine yourself at Starbucks, and someone passing by knocks over your double latte. The offender then flippantly responds with “Sorry, didn’t mean to do it”—and keeps on walking out of the store. While the above scene is certainly infuriating for the person with coffee in their lap, a slight from a stranger will likely pass
Why Saying “Sorry” Isn’t Enough Read More »
Here’s some good news for a change! There is now scientific research actually supporting the notion that long, happy marriages are possible – and occurring. Humans are born to love, but because of the escalating divorce rate in our society, we have become cynical. The assumption has been that long-term love, while desirable, is unrealistic
Keeping Love Alive for Decades Read More »
Let’s face it. In some circles, couples counseling has had a bad rap. Some believe that it is not worthwhile and rarely leads to a positive outcome. Others may have heard of someone who didn’t have a good experience. Couples counseling skeptics, who end up giving it a shot anyway, will unfortunately face the cruel
What Makes Couples Counseling Successful? Read More »
Dr. John Gottman, researcher and cofounder of the Gottman Institute, has found through his research that most couples are unhappy for years before addressing their relationship issues. This long delay is not only harmful to the relationship, in many cases it can seriously jeopardize its survival as well. Longstanding problems, mixed with years of resentment,
12 Signs You May Need Couples Counseling Read More »
An interesting study recently conducted by the University of Rochester, and discussed in The New York Times, found that “sappy relationship movies made in Hollywood can actually help strengthen relationships in the real world.” This finding came as a surprise even to the researchers, especially since their intended purpose was to evaluate two different types
Chick Flicks as Effective as Couples Counseling? Read More »
Entering into a serious and committed relationship is not something to be taken lightly. It’s important to examine why exactly you’re seeking an intimate commitment, and make sure you’re ready for this life change. Consider whether any of the following “red flag” situations might apply to you. Let them serve as a warning that you
12 Reasons Why You’re Not Ready! (To be in a Relationship) Read More »
Online dating, without question, has proven to be enormously successful (not to mention a multi-million dollar industry). According to research conducted from 2007 to 2009 by Reuben J. Thomas, a sociologist at City College of New York, approximately 23% of couples met online. (Click here for the full report) Almost a quarter of all couples
Online Dating Works for Many, but there are Alternatives! Read More »
It doesn’t happen literally; that would be illegal in most states, I think. But, it can happen in spirit – and more often than many people think: actually being in a relationship with someone who has certain physical or personality traits similar to one of their parents. The qualities usually favor one parent over the
Did You Marry Your Parent? Read More »
The short and fairly obvious answer to this question is: Yes, they can; but there are lots of potential traps and pitfalls. What is a Long Distance Relationship? A long-distance relationship typically means living far enough apart that the couple maintains separate residences. The frequency that long-distance couples are able to see each other can
Do Long Distance Relationships Work? Read More »
