During counseling sessions, people sometimes say that they expected me to yell at them. Do I look THAT mean in the picture on this page? That notwithstanding, I wonder what would give rise to such an expectation, other than the … Continue reading →

Somehow, amid last week’s flurry of glitter, turkey sandwiches and stick-on bows, I still managed to get some interesting feedback on my article about giving lots of love and gifts to kids, while still requiring them to be responsible for … Continue reading →

As the dust settles in the aftermath of the gift-giving frenzy, a lot of parents might wonder if they’re spoiling their children. The typical reaction to the word ‘spoil’ is, ‘To give your child too much, or to do too … Continue reading →

We all know that the holidays can be a source of stress, including the seasonal pressure to make everything (and everybody) instantly cheerful and merry. Well, sometimes it’s just not that easy, and the timeless words, ‘I’ll be home for … Continue reading →

I love it when I hit a nerve. A few weeks ago, I responded to a reader about her compulsion to raise ‘the perfect child.’ The great majority of you who contacted me asked about the various implications of expressions … Continue reading →

There are few things more annoying in everyday conversation than a person who interrupts. Though it might seem rude, there are different kinds of interruptions, some of which, according to www.changingminds.org, might not be so bad. For example, there’s the … Continue reading →

‘The holidays are so stressful! Shopping is such a chore. Christmas starts up so early these days. It ruins all the fun!’ Many people, especially those with large families, feel pressure and anxiety at this time of year. Does it … Continue reading →

One of the many definitions of the word ‘neurotic’ is ‘an impaired mental state brought about by conflicting motivations.’ In other words, a person is experiencing strong feelings about something, some of which are in conflict with one another. And, … Continue reading →

‘Say what you mean, and mean what you say.’ This venerable and oh-so-true expression reveals a lot about the importance of integrity, honesty and keeping your word. It also says a lot about how to interact with others in your … Continue reading →

  A Delaware Wave reader writes, Dear Dr. Hurd, I hate to admit this (that’s why I didn’t sign my name), but I feel like my kid’s mistakes and blunders (he is in second grade) are a reflection on me, … Continue reading →

Deep breathing is an effective technique for relaxation. The influx of oxygen can be a good way to cope with stress, and it’s a lot less expensive and hard on your body than taking medication. At the same time, however, … Continue reading →

Everything we do, we do for a reason. All behavior, no matter how irrational or self-destructive it may seem, serves some kind of emotional purpose. It’s not that somebody “shouldn’t” be acting in a certain way; it’s that they ARE … Continue reading →