Your Daily Polyamory Blog for Navigating Life, Relationships, and More
It’s no secret that children don’t just do what they’re told to. And instead, they learn a lot by watching and imitating others.
That’s where the whole ideal of a “role model” stems from. The term was originally coined by the late sociologist Robert Merton. (Incidentally, Merton also coined the term “self-fulfilling prophecy” » Read more
Have you ever known someone who really seemed fully convinced that their beliefs were vastly superior to everyone around them? And who not only felt that way but also felt a need to run around making sure to correct everyone?
Someone who seemed completely unable to tolerate the reality that it might be acceptable for other people to have different beliefs than them? » Read more
“Do as I say, not as I do.”
It’s been shown countless times that children learn a lot by observing what those around them do and imitating that.
Even if those same examples caution them against performing the behaviors, actions speak louder than words. And they’re more likely to mimic what they see than to follow instructions that conflict with the actions of those cautioning them. » Read more
Personality tests? Bunch of hooey, amirite?
I mean, maybe it’s fun to find your ramen patronus, but nobody takes them seriously, right?
They’re not based on science or anything… are they?
Well, a viral quiz’s assessment of what kind of lover you are based on the food you prefer is suspect, » Read more
Although it’s been said that sorry is the hardest word, I’ve also heard the following many times: “It’s easy enough to say you’re sorry. Doesn’t mean you mean it.”
Or something like it. Hundreds of times at this point.
It’s a pattern I’ve seen in my own personal life, » Read more
A great deal of time, energy, and attention are generally paid to psychology’s attempts to plumb the dark depths of the human soul. This is evidenced by how popular terms from abnormal psychology are when contrasted with terms that describe normative psychology.
A lot of lay folks know (and in fact use) terms like “narcissist,” » Read more
I am a champion crier. For real.
I cry when I’m happy. Cry when I’m sad. When I’m tired.
In my own case, it feels like there’s an emotional thermometer inside of me, and when the mercury in it rises enough (for whatever reason) to overwhelm the system and break the glass — » Read more
As I’ve written before, research has shown that the most resilient people aren’t always positive. “Always” is the key term here. A generally positive outlook is helpful in responding well to life’s challenges; the important point is that while resilient people are generally optimistic they also acknowledge reality.
There’s no amount of positive thinking that’ll let you just gloss over the bad parts and have you rebounding easily from them in a meaningful way. » Read more
By now, practically everyone has heard of IKEA, thanks to their increasingly expanding set of stores as well as Jonathan Coulton’s excellent tribute song to them. (“Billy the bookcase says hello” by the way.) And anyone who has any firsthand experience with IKEA knows that while they offer timeless modernist style at scandalous prices, it also comes with a time commitment. » Read more
Ah, revenge.
It can be satisfying to think about, especially when you’re reeling with a fresh pain. When someone has wronged you. Fantasizing about getting back at them.
They call it sweet, sweet revenge for a reason, don’t they?
Turns out that label might be a bit overly hyped. » Read more
