Research has indicated that about two-thirds (67%) of second marriages with children fail. Blended families have unique and often complex issues to deal with in addition to the typical lifestyle changes that every new marriage experiences. While all newlyweds must learn to adapt to each other’s routines and habits, opinions, and personal baggage (emotional and

  Contrary to general assumption, sleeping in separate bedrooms can be healthy and, for some intimate relationships, the best choice. Research conducted by the National Sleep Foundation indicates that approximately 25% of cohabitating couples sleep apart, in different rooms. One study performed in Britain by the Sealy mattress company found this statistic to be considerably

  Throughout my professional experience, I’ve noticed certain qualities in relationships that are less than healthy, and others that can even be toxic. While any one of these unhealthy aspects may not spell doom, it makes sense to eliminate as many as possible in your relationship. Do any of the negative characteristics listed below describe

Frequently, when couples come to a crossroads in their relationship, the idea of a separation does come up. It is often due to some negative event that causes an emotional disconnect between them, such as infidelity, job loss, a death in the family, or simply growing apart. Challenging issues and events can really shake things

In my experience as a couples counselor and relationship specialist, I’ve noticed that the healthier and happier couples tend to share some common characteristics. The healthy habits listed below are by no means a comprehensive list, but are qualities that, when followed, will no doubt improve almost any relationship: 1. Respectful “Fighting” The healthiest couples

  Although the overall divorce rate in this country is shrinking (see marriage statistics here), recent headlines and reports have indicated that the divorce rate is climbing for couples in the 50-and-over age bracket. Interested in preventing further erosion of “gray relationships,” renowned gerontologist Dr. Karl Pillemer surveyed 700 men and women, ages 60 and

Financial disputes are considered the most frequent cause of conflict between couples today and can often lead to the end of the relationship. Multiple research studies confirm this finding and, according to data from the Utah State University, couples are 30% more likely to divorce if they argue about money every week, as opposed to

What if you can’t find common ground with your partner on some serious relationship issues like finances, sex life, and parenting differences? Does this mean your relationship is necessarily unhappy, or even worse, doomed? Typically, most attribute dissatisfaction or unhappiness in a relationship to an increase in the number of problems a couple faces. However,