Millions of couples are stuck in particular forms of relationship dysfunction that push them over the brink into painful acrimony and separation. Often they have no idea of the deeper psychological dynamics driving them apart. These unhealthy relationship dynamics repeatedly … [Read more...] about A Common Theme in Relationship Strife
emotional support
Desperately Seeking Validation
Watch out for people who lean on you to validate their pain and misery. They may be using you to justify their unconscious decision to hold on to their brand of suffering. Sometimes, of course, we can help others in their suffering as we listen to them and comfort them. … [Read more...] about Desperately Seeking Validation
The Need to Believe in Yourself
This week’s post consists of comments on a reader’s email. This reader (I’ll call him Tony) presents some details of his life and his struggle to find happiness, and he asks for my thoughts and suggestions. In this post, I interject my comments as if we’re having a dialogue. … [Read more...] about The Need to Believe in Yourself