The fact that a stepparent is not a legal relationship highlights the role of strong emotional bonds within a blended family structure. Three tips for building good bonds.
Intermittent reward keeps us attached, says psychotherapist and author Jeanne Safer. We need to credit our own feelings of dissatisfaction and let go of "relentless hope."
The negative stories about the Brangelina break-up are dangerous, because the expectation that divorce must be a tragedy for all involved can create just that outcome.
New article in Canada's largest newspaper looks at Canadian couples who co-parent cooperatively, celebrate holidays together, and even help out with each other’s laundry.
Using colors and images that remind you of your positive past can help you feel more at home, after divorce, and support your vision of your future life.
You might be reluctant to talk about your divorce, but doing so can help you feel connected and supported, and remind you that you are not alone in this awkward state.
About one-third of divorced couples find themselves turning to each other for physical intimacy. While the reasons may be many, it carries risks to consider.
What do you do when your longtime marriage ends? Start a small business about divorce. At least, that’s the answer for an ever-increasing number of formerly-weds.
We can enjoy this holiday by expanding our notion of love. Rather than ignoring it or making cynical remarks, take an open-hearted attitude and celebrate love more broadly.
We've grown up reading and watching stories of passionate love affairs, and our own can feel flat in comparison. But there is no "canon of the good divorce."
We assume divorce leads to ever-growing distance, or active anger, but my own ex feels more like a 20-percent spouse, fulfilling about one-fifth of the roles I'd once sought.
Connection to others helps regulate emotions, which is one reason your spouse might act crazy in divorce; she's missing the beneficial connection to you. Online community can help.
It’s easy to feel less-than during the holidays, but we can create new traditions, skip the old ones, and bring cheer to others—three ways to enjoy the season, while divorced.
While most of us cherish holiday traditions, family celebrations need to adapt as families change. This is particularly true after divorce. The holidays can be a perfect time to reflect on your post-marriage relationship, and make adjustments as needed.
While we've all heard horror stories of expensive, nasty divorces, there are steps we can take to help ensure our own break-up does not follow that model.
Keeping your divorce out of court can help you create a positive, peaceful co-parenting plan. Fighting in court over child support or visitation hurts children, and a settlement hammered out in seething resentment can look downright crazy once the smoke clears. Help is on the way.
It can be hard for married parents to reassure their own children about the permanence of marriage, given the high divorce rate and other changes in the "typical" American family. Parents can talk to their children about the durability of family. Those of us in positive post-marriage relationships can help spread of sense of stability within our communities.
Resilience helps us bounce back from adversity, and like a muscle, it can be built. Author and professor Tal Ben-Shahar talks about how to build resilience in divorce.
Expecting your blended family to be one big Brady Bunch-like good time can lead to some serious disappointment. Psychologist Anne Brennan Malec recommends managing your expectations and taking steps to help all family members adjust.
We may think that divorce opens the door to a rousing round of nonstop dating, but many people find they need a break between marriage and getting back out there. Taking a break can bring real benefits.
