Dr. David Archives

Dear Dr. David: I am married to a woman who is fearful of making changes in our lives. She is generally a timid woman who doesn’t like to make big...

Every relationship is built upon loving attention.We want our spouse to make time for us, to show their intention of making us feel special.

I have found that a common thread in their relationship is a desire for mutual respect. In fact, one without it will be dysfunctional in some way.

Every relationship has its rough spots. There will always be those times, and those topics, that are more difficult to manage than others.

“I can’t get my husband’s attention. We haven’t been emotionally connected for years and I’m not sure it even bothers him.”

"If I felt safe there would be a lot more I would share with her. I’ll bet she has a lot more she would share with me as well.”

"We are embarrassed that we have been through failed marriages. There has got to be a way to guard against this one failing too.”

“I hear people saying that you can’t change anyone but you... It’s either put up with a crummy situation or leave, right?”

Many couples fight about the same things over and over again, eventually leading one or the other to consider separation.

A spouse who is willing to take any necessary steps to regain trust is more trustworthy than someone prideful, closed and resistant.

“Did you ever stop to look at her complaints?” I asked the disgruntled boyfriend. “Can’t really say I did,” he said.

Sadly, although we have reminder stickers for our cars, many couples forget about “routine maintenance” for their marriage.

Complaining about another’s behavior is not the same as confrontation, and certainly is not the same as holding someone accountable.

Taking the chance to love means taking the chance to have your heart broken.