Relationships

When Adult Children Cut Off Their Parents

While much has changed about the world since Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina was published in 1878, a portion of the novel’s opening line still resonates today: “Each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” The reasons for strained relationships, enduring rifts, and complicated dynamics are often as unique as the people involved. And for an increasing number of families these days, tensions run so high that estrangement from one another is common. Read More

Dating After #MeToo

Dealing with dating apps, social media, and pandemic repercussions has been challenging enough. Throw in dating after #MeToo, and you may start to wonder if finding love is even possible. Read More

How Parents’ Issues Impact Kids

It’s no secret that, as parents, you have a huge impact on your kids. As the primary caregivers of your children, you are responsible for providing a loving and stable home environment. You also have the unique responsibility to discipline and teach them how to handle any adversity that may come their way. No one is perfect, however, and our parenting can have both positive and negative effects on our children. Read More

A Codependent Relationship vs. a Supportive One

By Clint Fletcher The word “codependency” gets thrown around a lot these days and has taken on the general meaning of being too attached to a partner. If we’re chatting with our friends and overhear someone describe a person as codependent, they’re usually painting a picture of someone… Read More

Practical Parenting Advice to Put Into Practice Now

By Dr. Claudia Black, Meadows Senior Fellow, adapted from her book Straight Talk There is no such thing as perfect parenting, but there is good enough parenting.  As we mark another Parents Day at the end of July, may the following words support you in being that good enough parent… Read More

Separating Fact from Fiction: Putting Peer Pressure in its Place

Peer pressure is a strong motivator. Wanting to be liked or fit in can cause you to push boundaries — sometimes without considering the risk to your safety or any future consequences. Those things are a small price to pay for acceptance, right? That kind of thinking is what keeps your parents awake into the wee hours. Read More

The Subtle Cues of Communication

“You cannot ‘not’ communicate.” In the world of communication theory, this is a common adage.  This means that no matter how hard you try, it’s impossible to refrain from communicating with those around you.  Since most communication occurs through non-verbal cues transmitted both consciously and subconsciously, we are communicating whether… Read More

PTSD in Children of Alcoholics

The most important emotional attachment for a child is usually their parents. Children learn from their parents how to behave, how to function in life, and how to form other healthy relationships. When children grow up in unstable environments, it can disrupt normal development and lead to difficulties, such as mental health conditions. Read More