The word narcissism has roots in Greek mythology. Named after Narcissus, a handsome man who fell so much in love with his own reflection in a pool of water that not even a beautiful mountain nymph could capture his attention. Today, people use the term casually to describe egocentric and self-absorbed people, but the effects of narcissism extend far beyond vanity.
Before we dive into the importance of empathy and validation in intimate relationships, take a moment to recall the way you viewed your partner early in your relationship. Think beyond just the physical attraction you felt and try to remember the reasons you wanted to spend time with this new person in your life.
During times of high conflict, spouses sometimes turn to a third party – a family member, friend or even a child – as a means of alleviating tension. Known in therapy as triangulation, these relationship triangles can create a false sense of peace for one or both parties, but ultimately stand in the way of the couple addressing issues together in a healthy way.
Do the relationships in your life – with your partner, family, friends and coworkers – currently center around conflict and misunderstanding? While you cannot control the other people in your life, you can control how you respond during interactions.
We all feel anger from time to time, and occasionally we blow up and let that anger out. Every normal and healthy adult experiences a full range of human emotions, even the unpleasant ones like anger.
Known as dichotomous thinking in psychology circles, black and white thinking can shape how a person views and interacts with the world. The impact can sometimes have devastating effects on one’s relationships, work life and more.