‘Chronic complainers.’ They’re the type of people who see the negative first and only, in everything. They’re the type who complain about technology. ‘It dehumanizes us,’ they complain. But if the power goes out, or the Internet goes down, they’re … Continue reading
Some polls show support for the Tea Party increasing in the wake of the IRS scandals, in which the Tea Party was singled out by the Obama administration for special questioning because of their political views. While this might seem … Continue reading
If you want to better understand the concept of cognitive therapy, tune in to an unlikely source: Chef Robert Irvine’s Food Network series, Restaurant Impossible. Food Network’s website describes the show as follows: ‘Turning around a failing restaurant is a … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd: I enjoy reading your posts. I’m curious about the rational use of alcohol. I find that after a few drinks, many activities are more enjoyable such as mediocre/bad movies, actors whose political views I don’t share, and … Continue reading
(A reader of mine from Germany writes) Dear Dr. Hurd: The worker who earns only a small amount of money should pay no taxes, but his premiums for health insurance, pension insurance, unemployment insurance and long term nursery insurance. The … Continue reading
The essence of ‘mental health’ is—at root—rationality. The psychological manifestation of rationality is serenity. Serenity does not refer to contact with a faith-based ‘higher power,’ although some will claim it does. Lying to yourself, or telling yourself things are true … Continue reading
Some polls are showing that a majority of Americans feel that the government is out of control. This is based on continuing revelations about the IRS targeting politically incorrect groups, as well as the Justice Department seizing information from journalists. … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd: Can you offer any advice on how to find a rational therapist in my area? Dr. Hurd’s reply: The complete answer to your question is found in my book, “Bad Therapy, Good Therapy (And How to Tell … Continue reading
I received an email from a website visitor on the subject of bullying. He’s in his thirties, and tells me that schoolyard bullying has had a profound effect on him since his childhood; causing him great distress in many areas … Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hurd: What’s the difference between shame and embarrassment? And does a highly confident person with self-esteem ever experience shame? Dr. Hurd’s reply: Embarrassment is an emotional state of intense discomfort with oneself, experienced upon having a socially unacceptable … Continue reading
It’s a mistake to look for ‘the techniques’ to make you break a bad habit—drinking, overeating, or whatever it is. There’s an error in asking the question, ‘What steps can I take to break my habit?’ The question implies that … Continue reading
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) said the Obama administration has created a “culture of intimidation” with its widespread misuse of government power to target and intimidate its political foes. Speaking on the Senate floor on Wednesday, the Florida Republican said reports … Continue reading