The narcissist engages us through our own vulnerabilities. Often, they remind us of a narcissistic parent who we care about and want to give to, but then tolerate too much taking. The more you understand yourself and are at peace with yourself as it related to that parent, the better you will be at avoiding the trap of a one-way relationship…Read More
He may be the most charming man one could imagine; accomplished, handsome and charismatic. Yet at other times he is self-absorbed, full of himself, demeaning and suspicious. She may be the best dressed woman at your child’s parent night. She dominates conversation with her opinions. She has it all, and if you don’t think so, she will be sure to let you know. Perhaps he is two-faced. To everyone else in public, colleagues, friends and acquaintances your partner is amiable, humble, loyal and upstanding, but in private he is critical, detached, entitled and demeaning. A narcissist comes in a variety of roles…Read More
Many men feel more emotionally connected to their partner when they can protect her. Throughout history, a man’s protective instinct meant keeping a woman from harm and severe deprivation through his actions. Nowadays, protection means caring about her emotional well-being. This requires not only listening, but perhaps, more importantly, demonstrating protection and care through action…Read More
Many women feel more emotionally connected to their man when they express their thoughts and feelings to him. Women often rely more on other women for emotional support. These days, long-term committed relationships and marriages are expected to be a safe haven of emotional support for both genders. But there are important gender differences to consider to help men stay engaged in conversation…Read More
Perspective can make a big difference in how we think, feel, behave and relate to our spouse. Substantial psychological research on gender differences has shown that men and women differ significantly in how they perceive, think and communicate. Men tend to approach the world from the point of gaining status, preserving independence and avoiding failure. Women tend to approach the world as a network of connections and try to preserve relationship, community, create intimacy and avoid isolation. It is useful to consider these differences in the context everyday misunderstandings between men and women…Read More
