It often seems as if a third party is disrupting a couple’s relationship bond. The most concrete example of this is a love triangle in which one member has an affair. But there are other kinds of “love triangles” in which the third party is much less obvious than a direct romantic or sexual rival. […]
Who Wins an Argument?
by James Robbins, M.A., LPC Whoever you consider to be the Bad Guys, this much is certain: They think of themselves as the Good Guys. And the people you consider to be the Good Guys? They also think of themselves as the Good Guys. When you’re next in conflict with your co-worker, your next door […]
Should You Plan Your Next Argument?
by James Robbins, M.A., LPC When is your next argument scheduled? I often ask this question of couples, but it also applies to families, co-workers, friends. You argue the most with the people closest to you, and most of these arguments follow a fairly predictable pattern. I know, I know–you don’t plan these arguments. But […]
How Can You Grow from Conflict?
by James Robbins, M.A., LPC Next time you’re in an argument with your spouse, your family, your co-workers, remember this: The other person in an argument knows you are wrong. This is why they’re arguing with you. They aren’t pretending to think you’re in error. They’re not waiting for you to express yourself in just […]
How to Win Arguments — Or At Least Lose Them More Effectively
A certain amount of arguing is essential to the health of any long-term relationship. If you’re not arguing with your significant other from time to time, your relationship may not be growing. At the same time, daily arguing about the same pet topic accomplishes nothing. How can you trade-in negative fighting with positive growth? Take a look […]
