Let’s face it. Achieving a satisfactory work-life balance remains a considerable challenge for many couples.

The pursuit of professional success alongside personal fulfillment often leads to complexities and strains within relationships with work-life balance questions...

Emotional Cutoff in Bowen Family Therapy is a concept that is crucial for understanding and addressing relational dynamics within families.

As a couples therapist, recognizing the role of emotional cutoff is crucial for facilitating healing and promoting healthier connections among family members.

Mainly because family estrangement has been a feature of intimate family life in the USA for half a century or more…

What is Emotional Cutoff?

Narcissistic behavior, characterized by entitlement, lack of empathy, and a constant need for admiration, can significantly impact family dynamics.

When a narcissistic daughter utilizes the withholding of grandchildren as a means of control or manipulation, it can exacerbate existing tensions and create a rift in the family system.

But how do you know you’re not dealing with a narcissistic mom, framing the problem for you?

Here’s a question I was asked recently. “Is estrangement a form of abuse?"

This question delves into a complex and nuanced topic within psychology and family dynamics.

While the answer may vary depending on individual circumstances, research and expert opinions shed light on the multifaceted nature of estrangement and its potential impact on familial relationship

Losing a parent, or anticipating losing one, is a significant life event that can evoke a wide array of emotions, memories, and practical considerations.

When that parent is estranged, the grieving process becomes a complex wave of emotions, often with some logistical challenges thrown in…

The evolution of American family dynamics reflects a profound shift in societal values, contributing to the emergence of familial estrangement as a prevalent issue.

Let’s briefly discuss some of the social science research and insights from thought leaders in the field.

Contrary to societal expectations of blissful expansion, some parents grapple with feelings of overwhelm, stress, and a perceived decline in their overall quality of life.

I’ll explore the nuanced challenges of having a second child as illuminated by contemporary social science research…

I’m delighted to see the rights of dads becoming enforced in family courts.

While the rise of joint custody arrangements in the United States represents progress for dads’ rights, there are several potential challenges and drawbacks associated with this shift, particularly from the perspective of kids…

Joint custody means interpersonal skills are more vital than ever…

Narcissistic mothers and their daughters are often considered one of the most heartbreaking and agonizing bonds in human experience.

When a mother exhibits narcissistic traits, this dynamic can become fraught with complexity and emotional turbulence.

Research indicates that certain parental behaviors and communication styles can contribute to the likelihood of estrangement.

For example, authoritarian or controlling parenting styles characterized by rigid rules and lack of emotional validation may strain parent-child relationships and increase the risk of estrangement

Is parent-child estrangement always the parents' fault?

I’ll stick my toe into this histrionic hot tub by examining perspectives from estrangement thought leaders and synthesizing findings from social science research…

Filial responsibility refers to the legal and ethical obligation of adult children to provide financial and emotional support to their aging or incapacitated parents.

This responsibility can vary significantly depending on cultural norms, legal statutes, and individual family dynamics.

Why is this becoming a thing?