What is breadcrumbing in relationships? Breadcrumbing is a behavior in which one partner essentially gives the other partner just enough energy, time, attention, affection, or words of affirmation that provide some of the elements of being in a romantic relationship. However, the other partner is left still wanting. The partner who is on the receiving end may often feel they are being too needy or insecure because they feel mixed messages. They cognitively know they […]

Valentine’s day is just around the corner. It’s hard not to notice when everything around you seem to make you feel you should have something planned by now. But whether you’re planning on bringing her to the fanciest dinner date or getting him the coolest gift, it’s always about taking this opportunity to create more shared meaning as a couple. Aside from thinking about the best gift to get your partner, coming up with the

What are some emotions/states of being people commonly experience after a breakup? When a couple breaks up, it can stir up all kinds of emotions from anxiety and stress to feelings of total abandonment or the stages of grief that feel on par with the death of a loved one.  Would you say there are different stages of a breakup, similar to how there are different stages of grief? Or are they one and the

Conflict is unavoidable, whether it’s between you and your kids, co-workers, or your significant other. The higher the stakes in the relationship, the more it is likely to hurt. People respond in different ways. Stonewalling in marriage is often a knee-jerk response that individuals use to protect themselves when the emotional tide becomes too overwhelming. It’s not unlike a fight or flight response. It is an emotional escape. What Is Stonewalling and How Does It