A Wave reader in Millville writes: Dear Dr. Hurd, I strive to live up to the ideals you promote in your articles. I proudly quote some of your expressions about lying, overeating, rudeness, boundaries, keeping promises, and the like. … Continue reading →

Nobody wants to be known as a gossip. But, let’s face it: One way or another, many of us engage in gossip to some degree. Even if you never open your mouth, you’re contributing to gossip if you patronize (or … Continue reading →

  This article originally appeared in the January 25, 2006 issue of The Wave. It is being reprinted in response to your many kind requests. I reconnected recently with an old friend whom I had not seen for over 20 … Continue reading →

  A Wave reader in Ocean View writes:   Dear Dr. Hurd, I took the advice in your column from last March about being resilient in the face of hardship. It has improved my attitude about everyday ups and downs, … Continue reading →

  A Wave reader in Ocean Pines writes:   Dear Dr. Hurd, I saved your column from last year about how to handle money problems in a relationship. Your insight is most valuable, but my problem goes further than that. … Continue reading →

  There are few situations more awkward than trying to comfort a friend who has lost a loved one. What can you say? More importantly, what do they WANT you to say? I hear it all the time: ‘I don’t … Continue reading →

Do you remember mood rings? Back in the ’70s, everyone seemed to be sporting a mood ring, or a mood pendant, or mood earrings, bracelets or even mood lipstick! I’ll get the science out of the way quickly: The gadgets … Continue reading →

Why are some people inclined to jump out of airplanes, or risk thousands of dollars in the stock market—while others find it difficult just to meet or talk to new people? Why do some of us avoid risk at all … Continue reading →

Like an old friend who visits every so often, it’s time to say goodbye to summer. For our seasonal visitors, parting will be sad. The bright, salty days on the beach and the freedom from daily routine will certainly be … Continue reading →

Divorce. Split up. Break up. Even the words sound hostile and aggressive. But, whatever you call it, it’s one of the great unresolved controversies of our age—particularly when children are involved. Is it better to stay together for the sake … Continue reading →

Scene 1: An attractive young woman suddenly encounters a pair of hungry, bright yellow eyes. Scene 2: She peers fondly into those yellow eyes, as the attached mouth happily munches away. Scene 3: The cute logo for the latest feline … Continue reading →

Is it good for your mental health to love material things, such as your car, your clothes, your house—you know, your stuff? Absolutely! But I’ll bet this isn’t the answer you expected from a psychologist. Wasn’t I supposed to say … Continue reading →