The literal meaning of “normal” is nothing less than, and regrettably nothing more than “average.” When people tell me they want to be normal, I cringe. After all, why do they aspire to just average? I can understand how being … Continue reading
A reader sent an email asking me why some health professionals refer to her son’s behavioral problems as a “disease.” She says it makes her son feel worse about himself and even seems to deepen his depression. The whole idea … Continue reading
You probably know by now that text messaging is a quick and easy way to communicate using a smartphone. Abbreviated phrases are typed out and instantly transmitted to the recipient’s screen. Given the apparent need some people have to stay … Continue reading
A reader emailed me that he and his wife argue quite a bit. Though it seems destructive, he says they always make up, with the problem solved. He asks if arguing is a constructive way to solve problems. At least … Continue reading
Today’s culture of bad news and scandal has generated a number of letters and emails from readers. Basically, they ask me how they can keep from being cynical, but at the same time not be naïve in the face of … Continue reading
So many people say to me, “Why is it that what I can’t have always seems more appealing than what I can have?” The answer is easy: Wanting what you can’t have is the easy way out. In other words, … Continue reading
People often react badly when you say something they’d rather not hear. But it’s just as bad when you don’t say what they want to hear. The perfect example is an email I received from a reader: “Dear Dr. Hurd: … Continue reading
In an article on children, philosopher Stephen Hicks makes an interesting case against homework for school-aged kids. “Everyone says that they want children to grow up able to live independent lives and pursue their chosen careers passionately. But that aspiration … Continue reading
Rarely does a day go by then somebody doesn’t say, “Can you help me?” Well, yes … and no. A good therapist can help you identify your beliefs, what behaviors you choose to exhibit, and whether those choices and beliefs … Continue reading
I received an email from a Delaware Coast Press reader who has a 24-year-old son who has no friends (beyond those he has met online), no girlfriend, no driver’s license, no job, nothing. He’s quite good at condemning his siblings … Continue reading
People talk about the psychological importance of humility. For example, reformed alcoholics or drug addicts will say, “Until I learned humility, I could not become sober.” They’re certainly on to something profound and important here, but is it really humility … Continue reading
One of the great things – and one of the challenges – of living here at the beach is the changing of the seasons. The off-season can often be lazy and easy-going, while the mid-summer can require a bit more … Continue reading