A few weeks ago, I was in a minor argument with a friend of mine. I, of course, was trying to get her to “see the light” by logically and systematically presenting evidence as to why she should take my advice. Despite what I thought were very convincing arguments, she remained unswayed and unconvinced. I …Read More
Why Marriages Succeed or Fail – Book Recommendation
Aug 24, 2011
Lately I have been studying the work of Dr. John Gottman, a psychologist and researcher who has been studying relationships for over thirty years. He published his findings in the book “Why Marriages Succeed or Fail, And How You Can Make Yours Last.” Based on his research, Gottman is able to predict, with over 90 percent …Read More
Being Positive in Relationships
May 30, 2011
Researchers have found that most of our happiness comes from our relationships – around 70%. Thus, it is in our best interest, as well as the interest of others around us, to develop and maintain positive relationships. It is truly a win-win scenario. Researchers in psychology and related fields have found that in order to …Read More
The Science of Positive Emotions
Apr 2, 2011
Scientists used to think that all human beings have an inborn “happiness set point” that doesn’t really change. For some people, the more pessimistic gloomy people, that set point is lower, for some people, the eternal optimists, that set point is higher. Of course everybody will react to a tragedy like the loss of a …Read More
Love is Alive
Oct 19, 2010
I was recently listening to an audiobook lecture by noted Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, for which I’ll post a full review & recommendation shortly. One of the many things he spoke about that struck me is his description of love as being alive and organic. He describes the importance of “right thinking” about love. …Read More
Tips to Combat Teenage Moodiness
Sep 13, 2010
Many teenagers experience moodiness and irritability; however, by following a few simple tips, you may be able to promote a more peaceful home environment. When teenagers are feeling irritated, they often isolate themselves by going to their bedrooms alone or leaving the house to engage in a solitary activity. Unfortunately, this isolation often leads to …Read More
Social Communication Skills
Sep 3, 2010
Many children and teenagers (especially those on the Autism Spectrum) struggle to understand the implied rules necessary for navigating social interactions. Whereas most children learn these rules naturally by observing others, some may only be able to acquire these rules through direct instruction. If there are certain tasks that the child does not always complete …Read More
Conflict Resolution Skills
Aug 30, 2010
Some children have difficulty resolving conflicts independently. These children could benefit from being taught the Situation-Options-Consequences-Choices-Strategies-Simulation (SOCCSS) strategy to help them understand social situations and develop problem-solving skills at school and home. A description of each step is below: 1. SITUATION: After a social problem occurs, the child’s parents or teacher help him/her to identify …Read More
Looking for Something? Get “Lost”!
Jun 1, 2010
Perhaps this seems odd to give a plug to my favorite TV show, ABC’s Lost, on this website . What on earth does this have to do with psychology & well-being, you ask? Well, let me explain myself. First, I have to say that I’m pretty bummed that Lost has concluded. I loved the finale. I’m …Read More
You Matter…Here’s Proof
Apr 13, 2010
I recently finished the audiobook Connected: The Surprising Power of Social Networks and How They Shape Our Lives by Nicholas A. Christakis and James H. Fowler. As the name implies, the professors (Christakis a professor of medicine, sociology, and health care policy at Harvard and Fowler a professor of political science at UC San Diego) …Read More