Relationship psychology: attachment, communication, conflict, commitment, and building healthier connections with partners, family, and friends.
Virtuous Attitudes to Avoid Changing Others and Boost Mental Health Frustrated by a loved one’s habits? Dr. Audrey Tang and Merlin Sutherland suggest that trying to change others often fails, but setting boundaries and changing yourself can transform relationships. As a psychology professor with decades of expertise, I’ve seen how these virtuous attitudes reduce stress. … Read more
Why Couples Should Discuss Money Early, Per a Therapist Money is a sensitive topic for couples, often sparking stress or conflict. A Vivavoice Survey Institute barometer, cited in YouGov, reveals that 36% of couples split expenses 50/50, 24% contribute proportionally to income, 22% divide by expense type, and 14% rely on one partner. Couple therapist … Read more
What the Diddy Affair Reveals About Psychological Abuse and Control The Diddy Affair, involving allegations of psychological and sexual violence against Sean “Diddy” Combs, introduces a chilling concept: the “grip.” This insidious form of control, described by forensic psychologist Dr. Don Hughes, traps victims in cycles of dependency and fear. As a psychology professor with … Read more
5 Modern Threats to Romantic Relationships, Per a Psychologist Modern couples face unique challenges, from digital distractions to clashing values, that strain their bonds. Psychologist Albert Oduvol, in a Forbes interview and American Journal of Psychology study, identifies five key threats to romantic relationships in 2025. As a psychology professor with decades of expertise, I’ve … Read more
How Long Do Modern Relationships Last? A Neuro-Psychoanalyst’s Insights In 2025, the idea of love lasting “forever” is fading. Neuro-psychoanalyst Boris Cyrulnik, cited in Worldwide, notes young adults now prioritize intense, fleeting connections over lifelong commitments. A Copleo.care study reveals 60% of young couples split within two years. As a psychology professor with decades of … Read more
Harvard’s 80-Year Study Reveals Relationships, Not Wealth, Are the Key to Happiness For 80 years, Harvard’s Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies of its kind, has tracked hundreds of lives, including John F. Kennedy’s, to uncover the secret to happiness. Dr. Robert Waldinger, the study’s director, declares it’s not wealth or status … Read more
TikTok Trend Reveals Why Men Struggle with Close Friendships A heartwarming TikTok trend has men calling their male friends to simply say “good night,” sparking varied reactions from confusion to amusement. This viral challenge, highlighted in posts on X, underscores a deeper issue: societal norms often stifle emotional intimacy in male friendships. As a psychology … Read more
Why Calling Your Mother Daily Boosts Your Mental Health, Per Research A simple call to your mother can lift your mood as much as a hug, per a University of Wisconsin study. With Mother’s Day 2025 on May 25, it’s a perfect time to strengthen family ties. Harvard’s 85-year happiness study also shows quality relationships … Read more
Scandinavian Two-Duvet Trick: Save Your Sleep and Relationship Struggling to sleep next to your partner due to duvet wars or restless tossing? A 2017 Sleep Council report reveals 33% of people experience poor sleep regularly, with partner disturbances (25%) a key culprit. The Scandinavian two-duvet method, practiced for generations in Sweden, offers a simple solution: … Read more
One Phrase to Never Say in a Couple’s Argument: A Psychoanalyst’s Warning Arguments are a normal part of couple life, but certain words can turn a disagreement into a lasting wound. Psychoanalyst Christian Richomme warns that phrases like “I regret being with you” can shatter emotional security. As a psychology professor with decades of expertise, … Read more