The mother who acts like a martyr, manipulating her kids with guilt and helplessness. The cold and distant father, who never 'gets mad' but withholds affection and approval to get people to do what he wants. The child who conveniently forgets rules or never follows through on his promises. These are all forms of passive-aggressive behavior, which can ruin relationships and … [Read more...] about 7 Signs of Passive-Aggressive Behavior
family communication
5 Ways to Talk so your Husband Will Listen
Do you ever feel that your partner doesn't listen to you? It seems that every time you bring up a sensitive topic, like disciplining the kids, money, or sharing household chores, your conversation quickly deteriorates into a big fight. Or sometimes you don't fight, because…you guys don't talk! If you say anything, he just nods and promises, 'Yes honey,' just to shut you up. But … [Read more...] about 5 Ways to Talk so your Husband Will Listen
8 Questions to Ask Before Getting Married
You love him, he loves you—but before you tie the knot, you need to know a lot more than that. Marriage is a very important decision, and it's crucial that couples sit down and have a heart-to-heart discussion. How much do you really know about each other? Are your values aligned? Are your expectations clear? This may contradict the belief that 'all you need is love,' a … [Read more...] about 8 Questions to Ask Before Getting Married
7 Ways to Help Your Child Cope with Divorce
Divorce can get messy, and often escalates into ugly battles over property and custody. Children can easily get caught in-between. Even in the most amicable of divorces, many of them blame themselves for not 'keeping Mom and Dad together.' Others are terrified of the changes that lie ahead. Their family life has changed forever, and they worry about what will happen and feel … [Read more...] about 7 Ways to Help Your Child Cope with Divorce
7 Tips for Dealing with Critical People
'You can't please everybody.' We know that, we say that, and on good days we actually believe that. But it's funny how all our logic and confidence can crumble when we hear a critical comment from a parent, a boss, teacher, or anyone whose opinion deeply matters to us. Sometimes, we even internalize what they say, replaying their painful remarks in our heads so many times that … [Read more...] about 7 Tips for Dealing with Critical People