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 […]
Is Your Partner a Stupid Poopy Face?
by James Robbins, M.A., LPC For better or worse, your first model for Romantic Relationship comes from your parents or childhood caregivers. It’s not what they say about relationships that shapes you, but what they don’t say. Every family has unspoken rules. We don’t address conflict directly. Men sometimes yell and break things. Mothers worry […]
Why Are Relationships So Depressing?
by James Robbins, M.A., LPC When you’re going through a breakup, or even an intense fight with your romantic partner, it can feel like a catastrophe. Your work suffers, you’re moody, you’re appetite and sleep patterns are out of whack. You may feel a deep sense of loss or grief, as if you are losing […]
