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Exploring Remote Work Influence on Relationship Resilience
Abstract
The link between remote work and relationship resilience has become the most important aspect of social psychology, encompassing both physical and psychological well-being. This research aims to discover the impact of remote work on relationship resilience and ultimately to understand its effect on career satisfaction, particularly in an era of technological advancement and the shift of work affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, the primary goal of this study is to understand boundaries in professional and personal lives that influence emotional well-being. By integrating the diary method, this study aims to capture day-to-day activities while exploring real-time data based on individual experiences. Utilizing cluster sampling of 20 adults engaged in remote work actively involved in a romantic relationship, married, or seeking marriage, this study aims to focus on work experience, the fusion of technology, relationship dynamics, personal/professional communication, and career satisfaction, through thematic analysis analyzing the complex dynamic of work and relationship. It offers a pathway for future studies to explore and examine this dynamic and support future policies, procedures, or strategies for this transformation.
Keywords: Remote Work, Relationship Resilience, Work-Life Balance, Mental Well-Being
Exploring Remote Work Influence on Relationship Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of technology is reshaping personal professional lives continuously fostering a new work dynamic while redefining communication and connection among individuals (Prodanova & Kocarev, 2022), a new avenue for work and relationship, encouraging companies to create innovative measures to adapt and develop new structures while adjusting to the change. The continues globally shift additionally resulted in a rapid growth and expansion of technology effecting personal and professional lives. Therefore, this is study seeks to highlight the ever-growing shift while examine the impacted of this transition on relationship resilience among adults impacted by this shift while working from home, providing an avenue to understand the dynamic of work and the resulting relationship satisfaction. Seeking to explore the impact of professional career on mental health and a need to better understand its effect (Andrews & Wan, 2009).
This study focuses to understand how individuals cope with their daily work environment and responsibilities while also working towards building and maintaining a healthy relationship with their partners. Likewise, by understanding the impact of work on relationship this study also seeks to understand if this new work environment has resulted in boundaries becoming blurred making relationship challenging, resulting in an unhealthy relationship formation or if this change has triggered positive relationship formation developing a healthier connection among couples. Seeking to explore various emotional and physical factors to understanding how remote work can affect relationship. By interpreting participants day-to-day interactions and their influence on their relationship based on work environment and work dynamics, seeking to understand outcomes related to relationship resilience and ultimately their overall mental health state.
Through examining the effects of remote works dynamic on relationship resilience this study seeks to understand individual differences on coping strategies used as a mediator in personal and professional lives highlighting the connection of remote work and relationship in hope of creating new pathways toward better future developments of strategies that can be utilized to advocating new implementation, plans, or policies that employers and employees can implement as a mediator to advance personal and professional lives one step at a time. Recognizing the importance of emotional connection and emotional well-being therefore become one of the most important steps in both personal and professional lives helping to shape and support employees achieve work-life balance while recognizing the importance of the role work can play achieving balance.
One of the most important aspect of individuality is characterized by one’s influence and impact to the world, changing the meaning of career and it long term effect a way to create meaning in life while giving purpose both in world outlook and the influence on life domains, shaping views and act as a motivator to support and help develop positive outlook and internal balance (Shimura et al., 2023). Maslow's hierarchy of needs when regarding balance suggest that elements supporting individualization through life can be seen as personal need ranging from basic survival to self-actualization (Koltko-Rivera, 2006); work, therefore, can serves not only as a mean to provide personal and psychological needs but rather to support as a foundation of safety, belonging, esteem, and ultimately self-actualization (Koltko-Rivera, 2006), effecting all aspects of his hierarchy.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs recognition and acknowledgment thereby can offer an understanding of inner desires a mean to develop and grow personal interpretations of supporting inner respect, while forming self-esteem, building recognition, forming strength, and delivering autonomy, incorporating safety, and psychological needs. Thus, a healthy work environment acts not only as a unidimensional aspect of life but rather a multidimensional concept that can provide tools needed to achieve inner desires, a sense of security, emotional well-being, while supporting the building block of positive personal and professional relationships (Koltko-Rivera, 2006).
Koltko-Rivera, (2006) explores personal relationship in life as it is considered an essential feature marked by love and belonging though Maslow’s interpretations of his hierarchy of needs. Thereby creating a fundamental aspect for forming connection, intimacy, and love supporting the recognition of true emotional states and well-being. Consequently, the foundation of need is marked as a key to balance an essential factor to recognize the role of work and relationship and the given impact once united.
Technology likewise in maintaining a relationship act as a critical role both as a facilitator and/or as a barrio; thus, examining the role of technology and its impacts is plays a role within relationship is another aspect of this study as technology can both be seen or regarded as an enablers to connect and build relationships providing flexibility while also it can be seen as a challenge or a barrio in maintaining traditional boundaries creating a separation or a mixture of boundary within work and personal lives.
Work and its nature or condition involves aspects seen in society incorporating high powers influencing physiological well-being and resilience in both personal and professional lives; however, today an era where remote work, the rise of technological, coped with emotional dependency is continuously rising works nature has becomes normalized and minimalized due to lack of adequate research and at times boundaries among work and relationship become overlooked or neglected resulting in negative consequences (Ali et al., 2023). Thus, the boundaries in personal and professional lives supporting to shape and drive willingness to drive must be recognized and reinforced as understanding this missing link is marked as a crucial step to develop personal recognition and most importantly creating an awareness of opportunities to grow, develop, adjust, or embrace new possibilities creating a true work-life balance. Therefore, by examining the effect or impact of remote work this study aims to uncover the multifaceted modes in which remote work has or have shaped lives and is continuing to reshape logistical aspect of professional and personal lives.
Consequently in this new era examining the role of remote work and its effect on relationship while concentrating on personal and professional aspects particularly regarding personal and professional communication, relationship satisfaction, and personal support within relationship becomes highly important and valuable in this society especially when regarding personal development and overall well-being.
Literature review
Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, there has been a significant shift, a constant move toward a transition of work impacting personal and professional aspects of life incorporating work environment and social interactions impacting relationships of those working remotely (Van et al., 2021). A new shift impacting professional and personal lives on a global scale, a change that has become increasingly impactful in ways day-to-day interactions are done. Van et al. (2021) discovered critical factors incorporating such adjustment to remote work from an on-sit positions. This transition has been linked to higher employees’ career satisfaction considering the environmental factor of their positions. Thus, factor such as, work outcome, perceived work performances, and an ability to balance personal and professional demands is identified as key aspect of this transition.
During their study Van et al. (2021) utilized 5,452 employees discovering fundamental elements influencing work transition based on structural element exploration on work autonomy and job clarity. Through observing relational dynamics in workplace Van et al. (2021) explored interpersonal trust and social isolation in contextual workplace examining the shift in workplace environment such as change in location and work disruptions hypothesizing that independency of work is associates with work adjustment. Likewise the clarity of work is linked to employees’ positive adjustment, requiring inner/outer trust, limitation of social isolation, change in location, and a disruption of routines. Therefore, it become essential to recognize work not only as a unidimensional but rather a multidimensional factor impacting personal and prelesional lives.
Furthermore, Van et al. (2021) explored communication quality regarding work as a crucial moderator particularly through the utilization of technologies, revealing that previous data that suggest trust among colleagues and supervisors does not facilitate successful work outcome rather structural and contextual facts are key in a healthy work environment that can create and become key element in creating a successful adaptation in the transition of work underlining the complexity of remote work and its adaptation, emphasizing the value that work plays and the importance of having a diverse view in facilitating success for employees’ ability to navigate challenges and achieve the modern work goals.
Van et al. (2021) suggest the need to further understand remote work and its implications in today’s world, this understanding can support implications of needed adjustment for organizational practices and to support the creation of new policies in times of crisis and even beyond crisis signifying that the existing and past crisis are simply a call for a need to further adapt new methodologies and prepare the future work force for possible events such as wars, economic disaster, environmental tragedies, and many more requiring further adjustment to current work force seeking further research to better support and advocate upcoming changes and possible or needed adjustments.
Van et al. (2021) likewise highlighted the importance of this new adjustment from traditional work to work from home and its impact on both individuals personal and professional lives. Emphasizing the significance of autonomy, job clarity, trust, and the mitigation of social isolation when incorporating remote work. Vanet al. (2021) recognized the importance of personal roles when working remotely and its effect on relationship resilience marking it as a important step in developing new strategies that can supports employees in navigating the complexity of work and to better recognize the importance of work-life balance. Furthermore through this development organizations can implent new understanding to change and recognizing the needed adjustment employers can better understanding the importance of organizational management particularly when adapting new policies to accommodate change that can affect the work force.
Henke et al. (2022) also in their study explored remote work and its accelerated shift of traditional work to remote work while focusing on the adaptation and the success factors in the work environment utilizing a semi-structured interview in his study focusing on 59 participants in various levels and demographics seeking to explore contribution and challenges within individuals, teams, and organizational levels within a healthcare organization regarding remote work by utilizing a thematic analysis. Henke et al. (2022) identified skillsets and organizational changes as a crucial factor in supporting remote workers not only highlighting the importance of clear communication and policies that can result in empowering employees but also recognizing the importance addressing and ensuring fairness recognizing the challenges existing in building and likewise maintaining healthy relationship as relationship were challenging to make and maintain, highlighting that continues skill development as a key component in facilitating successful professional and personal relationship (Henke et al., 2022).
An important component in shaping lives and experiences especially considering professional and personal relationship is mental well-being and mental health (Phelan et al., 2001).  Over the past 60 years research discovered that individuals suffering from mental health can be twice as likely to die from illnesses compared to these who are not suffering from mental health issues (Phelan et al., 2001). One of the most important and often overlooked aspect is providing mental health the value that it needs as it have been neglected for far too often (Younger, 2011); thus, professionals must acknowledge the existing relationship between physical and emotional well-being in support of understanding the link  among such interactions and ways that new implementation can be set supporting the current literature.
Numerous research recommended importance of mental health and mental well-being suggesting a need for change and a deeper focus on improving personal health and well-being of employees reducing the impact of job strains and supporting employees personal and professional lives. (Laschinger et al., 2005, Gonge et al., 2002, Van Den Berg et al., 2006, Way & MacNeil 2006). Work, employee health, healthy relationships, and career success are recognized as complex but closely linked factors to each other impacting lives directly and indirectly (Way & MacNeil 2006). Current research is highlighting the existing influence of mental health and mental well-being on career outcome suggesting that negative mental health and mental well-being can affect up to 50% of individuals throughout their given lifespan triggering major societal cost proposing a U-shape life trajectory demonstrating that mental health and well-being peaks at a specific point in life course emphasizing the complexity of mental health and its course (Dijk & Mierau, 2023), signifying the critical link concerning mental well-being and physical well-being requiring immediate adaptations, recognition, and a need for more targeted research (Robson & Gray, 2007).
Nevertheless, a lack of acknowledgment remains in understanding the true connection and the nature of mental health and its importance linked in existing social stigma regarding mental health and mental illness of individuals’ (Lyons, et al., 2009). Although, various entities have attempted to create protocals and procedures in reshaping the existing stigma surrounding mental health illnesses, its existing effect seeks additional development and awareness as little success has been made while many neglect the true effect and influence of a healthy mental health on people (Lyons, et al., 2009). Thus, mental health, is seen as fundamental aspect of life supporting individuals’ level of internal satisfaction, forming internal drive, while crafting a willingness to grow seen as an essential key in developing positive self-image both internally and externally.
Similarly, a healthier mental well-being fostering growth and development results the creation of positive and healthy work environment suggest positive impacts on professional and personal lives. Miller et al. (2007) highlights in their study the importance of mental health and effects beyond anxiety and stress impacting employees and its posible consequence, correlating the impact of mental health of individuals physical and emotional state suggesting poor mental health has protentional to manifest itself while going beyond psychological state and in some cases being linked to an increased chance of developing breast and cervical cancer.
Therefore the connection between physical and mental state suggests an important link effecting aspects of life that are at times ignored or not cared for; consequently, creating a positive and healthy environmental structure can create empowerment while significantly improving perceptions of fairness, respect, and trust resulting a higher level of job satisfaction within employees and also create a stronger commitment to employers and ultimately manifesting itself into personal lives of employees supporting a healthier mental health and a healthier prosomal relationship (Spence Laschinger & Finegan, 2005)
Davila et al. (2017) explored the notion of healthy relationship functioning—romantic competence and its influence on personal and professional relationship satisfaction creating emotional resilience in understanding the true value of having positive relationship resilience, and personal well-being on both mental and emotional state. Research has continually linked the importance of having a positive and healthy relationship to a positive and healthy mental and physical health (Umberson & Montez, 2010). Therefore, exploring relationship competnce is considered as a combined influence of multiple skills including insight, mutuality, and emotional regulation.
Davila et al. (2017) study included a total of 187 participants examined across three diverse groups comprising of single women, a mixed-gender group, and romantic couples. Participants were identified as 140 women and 47 men with an average age of 19.65 with mix racial background who were involved in a romantic relationship. Utilizing web-based survey participants involved in this study were examined in their romantic competence measuring their  levels of relationship competence expressing higher competence level, reporting a significant link with their enhanced and improved relationship security forming an adept decision-making while increasing relational satisfaction in each couples relationship and most importantly reducing mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and stress highlighting the importance of relationship competency and its value (Davila et al., 2017), marking competency a significant factor in the development of a healthy relationship dynamics promoting psychological well-being and an improved mental health. Davila et al. (2017) not only validates the Romantic Competence Interview for Emerging Adults (RCI–EA) as a positive and reliable measure of relationship competence but also highlights the hypothetcal of romantic capability as foundational element for educational programs that are aimed to enhance relational skills prior to formation of long-term commitments, offering a proactive approach in improving relationship outcomes and mental well-being.
Lal et al. (2023) in their study focused on the significance of maintaining healthy and positive social interaction among employees during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on individuals that are actively working from home, being physically distant and facing limited social interactions with colleagues and others. Lal et al. (2023) explored a need to reevaluate impacts that are possible to result social isolation. Previous research mainly emphasized the importance of social interaction through traditional on-site roles and has been marked as a fundamental characteristic of social life particularly in a work environment aimed to create structure and a positive individuals experience; however, with the introduction of remote work this experience has been removed creating a gap in curet information of aspects work and the possibility of social isolation due to the current shift of remote work (Lal et al., 2023).
Lal & Haag, (2023) qualitative study comprised of diary entries gathered from twenty-nine participants to further explore technology-enabled social interactions among employees and its dynamic in regard to remote work, the qualitative study revealed significant challenges in maintaining social connection without the presence of physical connection. Such challenges include but are not limited to a lack of non-verbal cues, emotional intelligence, work insecurity, amplified workload, and a heavy dependance on technology. However, despite the existence of such challenges many participants revealed a desire in maintaining remote work status as a primarily method of working and are not looking to go back to traditional work settings, suggesting that a traditional in-person work environment could result in a lack of productivity and security.
Lal & Haag, (2023) emphasized the importance of varied work experiences of employees with work from home arrangements highlighting the importance of employers need in recognizing and managing differences effectively as such recognitions can mutually enhance efficiency and increase the level of satisfactions associated with work from home contributing the importance of insights in the evolving nature of work dynamic fundamental to the role of digital communication in remote work environment seeking to improve mental well-being and employees productivity rate (Lal & Haag, 2023).
Martin (2017) study marks as an important research to consider as he focused on exploring relationship from different dimensions, examining personal and professional relationship outcomes. Martin (2017) sought to understand the role of leaders on employees effecting personal and professional relationships to achieve goals aligned with desired outcome to supports personal and professional aspect of well-being. His study was focused in recognizing the influence of leaders that are considered inspirational through knowledgeable stimulation, implementing positive motivations, healthy personal and professional influence, and positive considerations in developing professional and personal well-being fostering growth exploring groups experienced with transformational leadership to emphasiz personal mentoring, positive vision sharing, and supportive generosity (Martin, 2017).
Martin (2017) explores the importance of work-life balance being recognized as a key ingredent in development of a healthy and supporting work relationship that can be seen as a buffer supporting employees from negative effects while in the same hand supporting employees to further enhance personal relationship forming growth to reaching personal and professional goals. Therefore, empowering personal and professional relationships while providing actionable steps and insight to employees become a key ingredient of well-being. Martin (2017) suggest that a positive and healthy leadership is the primarily component in addressing healthy balance, marking comunication and support as a vital factor in work-life balance an important factor for both employees and employers to consider.
Another important aspect of any relationship is the level of communication and how each person is capable of clearly communicate the emotions and feeling. Hirschmann et al. (2020) explored the relationship-centered communication skills and the value that communication plays highlighting the profound impact both in regard to professional and interpersonal aspects highlighting a significant shift in professional interactions and personal growth. Hirschmann et al. (2020) revealed enhanced professional and interpersonal relationship based on improved communication that can be seen as a skill that is transferrable across many situations a great example of the value that communication can play in achieving goals and reaching mutual positive perspective. This study not only explores the value of positive communication but also explores the effect that it can create across many aspects of personal and professional lives leading to an improved experience and a positive outcome. Hirschmann et al. (2020) expressed that despite organizational dynamic or the given structure there is a need of interprofessionally work in order to provider positive and desired outcome. This study supports the study by acknowledging the importance of positive communication and the quality it can add on a relationship as communication can support and build patterns positive relationship supporting the personal and professional resilience.
Likewise, another aspect in developing a healthy relationship relies on the power of acknowledgment and recognition. Acknowledgment and recognition therefore explored thorough mindfulness and time spent in recognizing and exploring inner and outer values. Kimmes et al. (2018) utilized Relationship Mindfulness Measure (RMM) that is designated to explore the level of mindfulness within a romantic relationship specifically designed to access individuals’ mindfulness level within romantic relationship addressing the gap in mindfulness research seeking to further focus on how mindfulness plays a role in relationship and discover how deep-rooted emotions and attachment play a role in relationship and how significant they are. Kimmes et al. (2018) study involved 185 participants with RMM predicting both positive and negative aspects of relationship qualities, attachment anxiety and also predicting avoidance. Indicating that mindfulness activates behaviors and emotional patters operates differently in romantic relationship a view different from other perspectives highlighting the importance of context-specific mindfulness in improving relationship outcome.
Therefore, working from home can offer employees a place and a chance to communicate and share feelings with their partners more effectively by paying attention to each other in ways that help couples be purposeful and in the present moment without any judgment holding awareness to further develop and build upon their relationship (Kimmes et al., 2018). When regarding a healthy relationship’s aspects such as the level of intimacy, mutual respect, positive regard to self and partner, healthy communication among partners, and having a positive sense of security marks an important factor in relationship (Kimmes et al., 2018), giving remote workers a better chance to manage and support their partners throughout the relationship creating positive and healthy outcomes.
Aleksić-Glišović et al. (2019) analyzeed motivation as a process supporting individuals to reach their goals recognizing employees as the most important aspect of any organization, thus their level of motivation marks as a key factor is achieving overall companies’ goals, seeking for new motivational tools and factors to be emplaced to support employees in reaching their goals and therefore helping company to reach its goals (Aleksić-Glišović et al., 2019). Contemporary motivational theories such equality, goal setting, reinforcement, and expectancy explore the new dynamic and express that importance of current shift from traditional one size fit all motivational strategies to rather a personalized theory that perfectly fits the new existing demands of remote work indicating the significant benefit of remote work and both in regard to employees and employers outcome fostering a workforce who are motivated, productive, and most importantly satisfied (Aleksić-Glišović et al., 2019).
By its nature remote work seeks this transformation to support organizations and personals in modeling new avenues toward a new model that highlights all aspects of personal and proceptions lives supporting autonomy, trust, and flexibility creating a sense of appreciation while driving autonomy and balance central to principals in motivational theory (Aleksić-Glišović et al., 2019).
When viewing goals, adults goal hierarchy has developed and transformed over the years indicating relationship and career as the most important aspect of adulthood with minimal research supporting the importance of this link between career and relationship (Ranta et al., 2014), thus, providing employees with control over not only their work environment but also allowing a flexible schedule and means of work employers can support a higher motivational need for further autonomy that can result in improving not only job satisfaction and autonomy but also can enhance employees personal lives and call for a better relationship outcomes; likewise, the nature of goal setting and feedback can be regarded as goal setting theory key driver of motivation; therefore, remote work not only aligns with traditional motivational strategies but also it promotes a healthy work-life balance providing fundamental framework for stablishing work life integrations that can contribute in maintaining healthy robust relationship both within and outside the workplace (Aleksić-Glišović et al., 2019).
Oz-Soysal et al. (2024), highlights the impact of remote work on adult relationships relating it to the autonomy factor a need for satisfaction and openness in relationship resilience amplifying the importance of how autonomy plays a role in relationship quality. Oz-Soysal et al. (2024) study proved that autonomy satisfaction and openness within romantic relationships significantly contribute to improved relationship quality and developing relationship resilience.
Problem Statement
            The transformation of professional and personal lives stimulated by technology while accelerated by the COIVD-19 Pandemic has formed flexibility and autonomy redefining personal and professional boundaries globally while raising critical questions in ways that relationship is navigated and/or maintained (Prodanova & Kocarev, 2022). Current research has provided extensive research on the evolution of remote work and its effect on psychological state (Van et al., 2021; Henke et al., 2022), and its importance on psychological well-being particularly in regard to relationship resilience (Davila et al., 2017; Kimmes et al., 2018) likewise the importance of relationships resilience regarding employee’s psychological state has been extensively examined (Davila et al., 2017; Kimmes et al., 2018). However, the link between these domains particularly ways that remote work effects/influences remain an unexploited gap requiring further exploration.
            Current research has highlighted the transformative potential of remote work particularly when regarding job satisfaction and work-life balance on employees who are actively engaged in remote work (Ali et al., 2023), yet its effects on relationship remains unexplored. Likewise, current research highlights the integration of technology as both a facilitator and a barrier in maintaining relationship (Lal & Haag, 2023), suggesting its complexity when maintaining relationship. However, there is a lack of sufficient research that encompasses the complexity of relationship and how it’s been affecting individuals working from home particularly regarding communication patters, relationship satisfaction, and support within a romantic relationship.
The effect of remote work is an important area of exploration impacting mental and physical well-being directly and indirectly particularly in regard to relationship dynamic, communication patters, and relationship satisfaction; as current research indicates remote work to be a positive factor in personal relationship development biased on factors such as work-life balance, communication quality, and mental well-being (Lal et al., 2023; Oz-Soysal et al., 2024), yet overlooking this correlation and factors work environment can either foster positive or negative relationship consequence remains unknown. Questions such as will remote work promote, built, help support, and/or maintain relationship satisfaction while supporting resilience particularly in the context of the existing global shift remines at utmost important to answer.
This study is seeking to bridge the gap within the current existing research by analyzing insights from remote work adaptation and its psychological impact and understand the importance of remote work when considering romantic relationship (Van et al., 2021; Henke et al., 2022), understanding the importance of mental well-being in professional and personal lives (Phelan et al., 2001; Robson & Gray, 2007), while recognizing the role of technology in relationship dynamic and todays digital age (Davila et al., 2017; Lal et al., 2023).
            Addressing the existing gap regarding remote work and relationship in research is not only necessary for advancing social psychology but likewise an important factor in development of interventions that can support relationship resilience in an era of ever-growing technological advancement forming a rise of remote work replacing traditional onsite roles. This is an important area that can impact both employees and employers, a fundamental step in setting new policies, practices, and/or developing stage to fostering healthy relationship while raising awareness for the importance of future research.
Purpose of the Study
The ultimate goal of this study is to explore remote work and its impact on relationship resilience exploring the union of professional and personal relationship in the rise of technology. This study seeks to investigate how remote work contributes to relationship dynamics by supporting couples, participants overall well-being, while recognizing possible career satisfaction as a result. By utilizing the diary method this study can capture in-depth view of day-to-day interaction in real-time, understand daily interaction of participant while engaged in work. Ultimately the goal of this study is to better understand how each individuals experience impacts/influences their relationship experience. Hypothesizing that remote work can offers relationship resilience leading to career satisfaction.
This study is rooted in three primary questions delivered from the gap identified within research. The first question is to explore and identify how remote work can impact participants day-to-day relationship satisfaction while working from home and living with their partners, understanding direct impact by recognizing perception while considering the existing balance within professional and personal boundaries.
The second question is to understand in what ways do communication changes in relationship while working remotely and how such changes affect personal relationship. This question will provide an understanding of communication dynamic particularly within remote work and its implications seeking to understand how the new norm can sustain or enhance relationship resilience.
Finally the last question is to understand how each participants perceive their relationship in terms of support given their work arrangements and how will this support in turn impacts the ways participants view not only their relationship but their career, seeking to explore the importance of support within the relationship impacting not only the relationship but also the ways it can enhance career satisfaction.
These questions are set to foster a deep analyzation in complexity of the link within personal and professional relationships and discover if this link can enhance or impair relationship resilience, ultimately impacting professional and personal relationship satisfaction providing empirical insight to adapt strategies supporting future research in navigating challenges and opportunities in relationship dynamic.
Research Methodology
Participants
This study will recruit participants online and utilizing cluster sampling. The participants will be comprised of 20 adult who are actively working in a remote work setting working from home and are actively engaged in relationship will be selected randomly to participate in this study. Likewise the sample will be selected with an aim to include a wide range of participant particularly selected based on geographcal regions within the United States with wide range of age and gender in no particular order to demonstrate random sampling seeking to gain a broad understanding of participants experience not only focusing on one particular group.
The participants for this study will be recruited through social media platforms such as Instagram and Google Ads to support a personalized targeting advertisement and create a higher audience retention. By utilizing online platforms such as Google Ads and Instagram the selection of participants can have better chance of only targeting eligible audience who fall into appropriate criteria that are needed for this study; therefore, utilizing targeting advertisement strategies can be a helpful step as it can reduce the time spent on advertisement due to its targeting ability and likewise it can reduce the cost of advertisement by focusing its target only on individuals who fall into the study criteria.
The criteria for participants who will be eligible to participate in this study is to be actively work on a full-time position and are engaged in a remote position working from home for at least six months and likewise actively engaged in a romantic relationship with no children, married, and living together for at least one year. Having no children is an important factor for this study as it supports in removing all possible external factors that could manipulate results or divert participants based on children’s unpredictability influences. The goal of this sample is to provide the researcher with a diverse sample, a sample that can represent a verity of professional experience and age group across the U.S. population.
Method
The primarily methodology for this study will be in the use of diary method as it can provide the researcher tools to capture real-time data that are naturalistic biased on participants daily experience, thoughts , and feelings in regard to their work experience, incorporation of technology, relationship satisfaction, and finally career satisfaction. These questions are designated to support participants in expressing their true experience related to their work experience and relationship factors.
Utilizing the diary methods participants will be asked to reflect on their daily experience and provide journal entry of their experience over four-weeks. Likewise, to ensure participants engagement during the study and provide interventions and adjustment the researcher and the participants will have weekly online meeting over Zoom to support the participants in answering any question that they may have and provide support in case of any issues that may come to surface. This weekly meeting also is utilized as a motivator factor and an accountability factor to support the participants in achieving their goals and make any adjustment needed during the duration of this study.
Procedures
Upon recruitment, participants will be briefed about the study's purpose, confidentiality measures, and their role in the diary-keeping process. The participants in this study will be provided a digital diary platform that can be accessible through a secure application using both iOS and Android, ensuring security, privacy, ease of use, and cross platform usage. Participants will be then prompted to download the application, create an account, set a four digit password, and make daily entries, focusing on work routines, interactions with their partners, perceived support, communication patterns, overall relationship satisfaction, and career satisfaction. Weekly and daily reminders will also be sent to encourage consistent participation.
Measurement Tools
This study will be structured on several key factors regarding remote work to better capture the experience of participants particularly focusing on career satisfaction and relationship resilience. Factors such as work experience, technology incorporations, relationship dynamic, communication patters, and career satisfaction are important aspects of this study as together can create a better picture of participants experience.
Work Experience: This section of the entries will focus on remote work experience particularly regarding participants remote work settings such as environmental factors, tasks, challenges, and successes focusing on specific factors that either facilitate or hinder participants productivity and well-being.
Technology Incorporations: This section will reflect participants interaction with technology both personal and professional and the role of technology in participants daily life given their work requirement. An important step to understand the role of technology on supporting participants or hinder participants in thier time management or communication within their relationships concerning both personal and professional aspects of their lives.
Relationship Dynamics: Dairy entries in this section will account for participants daily interactions with their partners both during and after work. Participants will be asked to reflect on their relationships dynamic and relationship satisfactions particularly due to their work expectations. This section will also include a section for participant to reflect on quality time spent together with their partner, possible conflict, and resolution strategies in case of possible conflicts.
Communication Patterns: Participants will be asked to reflect on their communication styles both during and after work hours seeking to underline frequency, mode, quality of communication, and patterns of change over time.
Career Satisfaction: This section will be used for participants to reflect on their career and assess their overall career satisfaction. Participants will also be asked to reflect on their career path, opportunities for growth, and work life balance.
Weekly Online Meetings
Weekly online meeting is placed to support participants and act as a motivational tool supporting the participants in any questions or concerns, they may have. Likewise, it is used to as a tool for the researcher to be further involved in the process of the study and conduct semi-structured interviews to further ensure consistency and accuracy of dada. During weekly meeting participants will be given a chance to explore and express their experience while engaged in this study and share any questions they may have regarding the process of the study or any upcoming challenges that they may have. This meeting will also be used to support participants in refining their eateries and serve as a tool that participants that they can utilize to share and express any issues that they may encounter during the study regarding the use of the app and any other technical issues that they may face.
Data Analysis
To analyze the data that has been provided by the participants for this study the researcher will utilize thematic analysis. Also, by utilizing NVivo qualitative data analysis software the researcher can better identify patters, themes, and insights into the data provided by each participant. The use of NVivo coding proses can allow for a better organization of data that is more focused on gathering and extracting themes related to the impact of remote work in regard to relationship dynamics, communicational changes, professional and personal support system, while examining overall career satisfaction and relationship resilience seeking to understand how remote work influence relationship resilience and in turn effect career satisfaction.
Validity and Reliability
The diary entries and interviews will be triangulated by the researcher for this study to ensure validity and reliability of all provided data. Likewise to improve accuracy and compliance the participants will have the opportunity to review contributions that they have provided that is known as “member checking” to further enhance credibility and trustworthiness of the data and ensure both calidity and reliability.     
Ethical Considerations
Before the start of the study all participants will be given proper consent forms and will be informed of their rights and are free to exit the program at any time and will be given instruction regarding their contribution and will also be eligible to receive support in case of being overwhelmed and/or emotionally impacted during the study. Additionally, participant confidentiality is highly important during the study and upon receiving the data for this study all personal information’s such as names, address, phone number, and date of births will be removed ensuring anonymity and confidentiality. Likewise prior to the study ethical approval will be obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB).
Conclusion
The primary goal of this research is to explore the relationship between remote work dynamic and relationship resilience. A comprehensive proposal to explore how current work dynamic influences relationship, and therefore affects career satisfaction. By exploring nuance involved in remote work dynamic. The existing body of research incorporates various aspects concentrating on remote work setting, fluctuations of work due to pandemic, state of relationship, and the future of personal and professional life; however, the current gap involves link among work and its effect on relationship.
Employing a diary method, coupled with weekly meetings this study will ensures participants have a place to reflect and acknowledge their experience surrounding personal and professional lives reflecting on factors that eaither support or hinders overall mental and emotional well-being. Utilizing the diary method integrates real time account of daily experiences of participants day-to-day activities and the existence or lack thereof work-life balance as a result of remote work. By analyzing relationship dynamic, work experience, the fusion of technology, analyzing communication patterns, and understanding overall career satisfaction this study aims to highlight the impact of work on relationship exploring factors that involve career path and relationship satisfaction.
The methodology and measurements selected can support the researcher in capturing participants experience ensuring rich an accurate data resulting in meaningful conclusions of participants experience regarding their well-being while ensuring accurate randomized account of experiences utilized to incorporate and support the findings. This study has the potential to inform future policies supporting personal and professional lives aiming to acknowledge individuals and organizational goals while navigating the complexity of work-life balance fostering mental well-being.
References
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Ali, A. D., Narine, L. K., Hill, P. A., & Bria, D. C. (2023). Factors Affecting Remote Workers' Job Satisfaction in Utah: An Exploratory Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(9), 5736. 10.3390/ijerph20095736
Andrews, D. R., & Wan, T. T. H. (2009). The importance of mental health to the experience of job strain: an evidence-guided approach to improve retention. Journal of Nursing Management, 17(3), 340-351. 10.1111/j.1365-2934.2008.00852.x
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Davila, J., Mattanah, J., Bhatia, V., Latack, J. A., Feinstein, B. A., Eaton, N. R., Daks, J. S., Kumar, S. A., Lomash, E. F., Mccormick, M., & Zhou, J. (2017b). Romantic competence, healthy relationship functioning, and well‐being in emerging adults. Personal Relationships, 24(1), 162-184. 10.1111/pere.12175
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Fuchs, C., & Reichel, A. (2023). Effective communication for relational coordination in remote work: How job characteristics and HR practices shape user–technology interactions. Human Resource Management, 62(4), 511-528. 10.1002/hrm.22161
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Hirschmann, K., Rosler, G., & Fortin VI, A. H. (2020). “For Me, This Has Been Transforming”: A Qualitative Analysis of Interprofessional Relationship-Centered Communication Skills Training. Journal of Patient Experience, 7(6), 1007-1014. 10.1177/2374373520962921
Kimmes, J. G., Jaurequi, M. E., May, R. W., Srivastava, S., & Fincham, F. D. (2018). Mindfulness in the Context of Romantic Relationships: Initial Development and Validation of the Relationship Mindfulness Measure. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 44(4), 575-589. 10.1111/jmft.12296
Koltko-Rivera, M. E. (2006). Rediscovering the Later Version of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: Self-Transcendence and Opportunities for Theory, Research, and Unification. Review of General Psychology, 10(4), 302-317. 10.1037/1089-2680.10.4.302
Lal, B., Dwivedi, Y. K., & Haag, M. (2023). Working from Home During Covid-19: Doing and Managing Technology-enabled Social Interaction With Colleagues at a Distance. Information Systems Frontiers, 25(4), 1333-1350. 10.1007/s10796-021-10182-0
Laschinger, H. K. S., & Finegan, J. (2005). Using empowerment to build trust and respect in the workplace: a strategy for addressing the nursing shortage. Nursing Economic, 23(1), 6. 
Li, L., Li, G., & Chen, J. (2020). Professional Competence or Personal Relationship? Research on the Influencing Mechanism on Repeated Purchase Intention of Agricultural Resources. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(7), 2278. 10.3390/ijerph17072278
Lyons, C., Hopley, P., & Horrocks, J. (2009). A decade of stigma and discrimination in mental health: plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose (the more things change, the more they stay the same). Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 16(6), 501-507. 10.1111/j.1365-2850.2009.01390.x
Martin, J. (2017). Personal Relationships and Professional Results: The Positive Impact of Transformational Leaders on Academic Librarians. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 43(2), 108-115. 10.1016/j.acalib.2017.01.012
Oz-Soysal, F. S., Bakalım, O., Tasdelen-Karckay, A., & Ogan, S. (2024). The Association Between Autonomy Need Satisfaction and Perceived Romantic Relationship Quality: The Mediating Role of Openness. Emerging Adulthood (Thousand Oaks, CA), 12(2), 187-200. 10.1177/21676968231220074
Phelan, M., Stradins, L., & Morrison, S. (2001). Physical Health Of People With Severe Mental Illness: Can Be Improved If Primary Care And Mental Health Professionals Pay Attention To It. BMJ (Online), 322(7284), 443-444. 10.1136/bmj.322.7284.443
Prodanova, J., & Kocarev, L. (2022). Employees' dedication to working from home in times of COVID-19 crisis. Management Decision, 60(3), 509-530. 10.1108/MD-09-2020-1256
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Shimura, A., Yokoi, K., Ishibashi, Y., Akatsuka, Y., & Inoue, T. (2021). Remote Work Decreases Psychological and Physical Stress Responses, but Full-Remote Work Increases Presenteeism. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 730969. 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.730969
Spence Laschinger, H. K., & Finegan, J. (2005a). Using Empowerment to Build Trust and Respect in the Workplace: A Strategy for Addressing the Nursing Shortage. Nursing Economics, 23(1), 6-13, 3. https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/using-empowerment-build-trust-respect-workplace/docview/236934609/se-2?accountid=12085 https://liberty.alma.exlibrisgroup.com/openurl/01LIBU_INST/01LIBU_INST:Services??url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:journal&genre=article&sid=ProQ:ProQ%253Aabiglobal&atitle=Using+Empowerment+to+Build+Trust+and+Respect+in+the+Workplace%253A+A+Strategy+for+Addressing+the+Nursing+Shortage&title=Nursing+Economics&issn=07461739&date=2005-01-01&volume=23&issue=1&spage=6&au=Spence+Laschinger%252C+Heather+K%253BFinegan%252C+Joan&isbn=&jtitle=Nursing+Economics&btitle=&rft_id=info:eric/15768779&rft_id=info:doi/
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atreef · 5 months
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Houston Couples Therapy & Relationship Counseling - Expert Guidance
Strong, secure relationships are necessary for all of us to thrive.
The joy you had with your partner was unmatched and unlike any other feeling. You felt at home and loved every second spent with them. The love was unlike any other feeling you ever felt or could imagine.
But, today, your feeling of love and joy has unfortunately been replaced with:
Repeated arguments with your partner, often starting over small issues and then escalating to bigger, sometimes hurtful disagreements.
Feelings of tension in your relationship, or at times, feeling like you are "walking on eggshells."
Less intimacy and sexual desire as your emotional connection or your partner’s emotional connection has decreased.
Fear of talking about your issues or problems because you just don't know where or how to start . . . or you may feel overwhelmed as you can not tell where the conversation will lead.
This could be the result of you or your partner feeling stuck. You may also feel too tired to share or discuss your differences, and old issues seem to never get resolved, and at times, your feelings may lead to hopelessness.
That is why couples therapy may be a good place for you to start. Couples just like you may wonder the same issues, and yes you are not alone in this!
Here are some questions that are normal to ask:
Will couples therapy or counseling make a difference in my relationship?
Can my relationship be saved?
Is there a solution to our arguing repeated cycle?
Is it too late for my relationship?
Can we set a better example for our kids?
And can we turn back time in our relationship?
Answers to questions like these can depend on where the feelings are in your relationship.
Located in Houston, Texas, and licensed in both Texas and Florida, my goal as your therapist is to work with you and your partner on your relationship issues and to assist you in any stage of your journey.
"With therapy, couples can transform challenges into opportunities and growth, turning struggle into steps towards a deeper understanding and stronger connection."  -- Ehsan Adib Shabahang
My passion is to help you and your partner reconnect and, in the process, while working with you, develop a strong foundation from which you and your partner can take on any challenge that you may face. I understand the pain and struggle of reaching out for help; that is why I offer a 15-minute consultation to help you in this journey, giving you a chance to share and express your emotions. I specialize in using scientific, innovative, and proven couples therapy approaches that can provide you with the tools that you and your partner need to help you and your partner become a team again.
AtReef is a place that helps you heal in your relationship and turn issues into opportunities with the help of tools and science-backed methods. Giving you a chance to once more love, enjoy, and share that feeling that once existed in your relationship.
My Services Include:
Relationship Counseling
Sex Therapy
Premarital Counseling
Affair Recovery
Couples Therapy and Counseling
Note: I am trained to work with a variety of challenges that are too exhaustive to list. Please call or email if you have any specific questions that I can help.
Strengthen your relationship emotionally and physically.
In my therapy sessions I focus on understanding your story helping you work through challenges in a way that feels right. I use a mixture of methods in our sessions.
First, there's an approach that helps you and your partner manage emotions and improve relationships by teaching practical skills. Then, we work on changing negative thought patterns to improve how you feel and act.
For couples, I also use special technique that's all about making relationships stronger and helping you communicate better.
And finally, I offer guidance on issues related to sexual health and intimacy. This part of my work is about creating a comfortable space where you can openly discuss and work through concerns or questions you might have.
My goal is to provide you the support and tools you need to feel better and make positive changes in your life and relationships.
My Specialties
I have helped countless couples through major challenges
Difficulty communicating
Feeling misunderstood or misjudged and struggling to get your message across
Lack of intimacy
Feeling lonely, avoiding vulnerability, and having struggles with closeness
Limited boundaries
Difficulty in setting boundaries burdens you, leading to resentment or loneliness
Relationship viability
Questioning if you’re in the right relationship, feeling like you don’t have the tools to decide
Intense conflict
Reaching painful conflict often and feeling overwhelmed by everyday interaction
Long distance
The physical distance is making it hard to get traditional counseling, but you need help
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atreef · 5 months
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Strengthening Bonds: The Essential Role of Couples Therapy in Nurturing Healthy Relationships
Recognizing the Right Time for Couples Therapy: Key Indicators
Deciding to start couples therapy is a big step in nurturing and preserving the health of your relationship. It's not just remedy for crisis; it's a proactive measure to deepen your understanding and connection. Here is key indicators that might be time to consider couples therapy:
Communication Breakdown: If you find conversations often turn into arguments, or there's a pervasive silence and avoidance of discussion, it's sign that communication has broken down. Therapy can help rebuild these communication channels in a healthy and effective way.
Recurring Conflicts: Every couple has disagreements, but if you' re stuck in a loop of the same arguments without resolution, it might be time to seek external support. Therapy can provide you new perspectives and strategies to break the cycle of conflict.
Emotional Distance: Feeling emotionally disconnected, distant from your partner is a red flag. If you're struggling to feel close or understood with your partner, therapycan help bridge this gap.
Trust Issues: Trust is the foundation of relationship. If there have been breaches of trust, such as infidelity and/or dishonesty, therapy can be crucial addressing the root causes and rebuilding trust.
Major Life Changes: Significant life events like the birth of child, career change, or loss can put stress on relationship. Couples therapy can help you navigate changes together, ensuring they strengthen rather than strain bonds.
Intimacy Concerns: If there are issues in your sexual relationship, whether it's mismatch in libido, sexual dissatisfaction, or concerns, therapy can provide safe space to address sensitive topics.
Considering Separation: If you're contemplating separation or/and divorce, couples therapy can be a crucial step. It can either help you repair the relationship, if separation is the best course, assist in managing it in healthy, respectful way.
Feeling Stuck or Unhappy: Sometimes, you might not have a specific issue, but there's general feeling of unhappiness or being stuck. Therapy can help identify underlying issues and work towards a fulfilling relationship.
Impact on Other Areas of Life: If relationship issues are affecting your work, health, or other aspects of life, it's clear sign that professional help might be needed.
Desire for Growth: Even if your relationship is healthy, therapy can be beneficial. It's a proactive way in deepen connection and ensure the longevity of partnership.
Why Couples Therapy is Important: Understanding Its Transformative Power
In our relationships, couples therapy is a vital thread, weaving strength and resilience into partnerships. It's more than just remedy; it's a proactive step towards a fulfilling healthy relationship. Here's a detailed exploration of why couples therapy is not just beneficial but essential:
Fostering Communication: One of the bases of a robust relationship is effective communication. Couples therapy provides a platform to learn and practice healthy communication skills. It's about understanding not how to talk, but to listen, interpret, and respond. In therapy, couples learn to express themselves clearly and listen empathetically, leading to deeper understanding of each other's needs and/or perspectives.
Resolving Conflicts Constructively: Conflict is an inevitable part of relationship, but it doesn't have to lead in damage. Couples therapy teaches partners how to manage disagreements constructively. It's about finding common grounds, respecting differences, and working towards solutions that consider both viewpoints. This approach transforms conflicts into opportunities for growth/understanding.
Rekindling Intimacy and Connection: Over time, the initial spark in relationship can dim, making ways for routine. Couples therapy helps reignite the flame of intimacy / connection. It's a space to explore emotional and physical needs, address barriers in intimacy, and rediscover the joy of being together. This renewed connection strengthens the bond and enhances the overall quality of relationship.
Navigating Life Transitions: Life is a constant change, and transitions can strain relationships. Whether it's career changes, parenthood, or aging, couples therapy provides guidance and support. It helps partners navigate these changes, maintaining strong bond and mutual support system through life.
Healing and Forgiveness: Past and unresolved issues can cast shadows over relationship. Couples therapy offers a path to healing / forgiveness. It's a process of understanding, acknowledging pain, working towards forgiveness. This journey can be transformative, allowing couples to move forward without burden of past grievances.
Personal Growth and Self-Understanding: Couples therapy isn't just about the relationship; it's also about growth. It offers a mirror to understand you better - your motivations, fears, and patterns. This self-awareness is invaluable, leading to growth that benefits you and the relationship.
Preventing Small Issues from Becoming Major Problems: Often, small irritations and misunderstandings can escalate into significant issues if not addressed. Couples therapy provides a proactive approach in dealing with these minor problems before they become major. It's about seeing potential issues, ensuring they don't erode your relationship's foundation.
Building a Shared Vision and Purpose: A thriving relationship is more than just coexisting; it's about sharing a vision / purpose. Couples therapy helps partners align their goals / dreams, creating path forward. This alignment fosters a sense of partnership and teamwork, essential for a long-lasting fulfilling relationship.
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality."  -- John Lennon
Conclusion
Couples therapy is an investment in health and longevity of a relationship. It's journey of discovery, growth, and bonds. Whether you're facing specific challenges or wish to enhance your partnership, couples therapy offers the tools, insights, and support to foster loving / resilient relationship.
Relationships are like unique journeys, each with its own challenges and pleasures. In, Texas, and throughout Florida, I offer my specialized approach to couples therapy. As a licensed therapist in both states, my practice is rooted in deep understanding of relationships, and I'm here to help you navigate it.
My Therapy Style:
My approach to therapy is unique as your relationship. I believe in creating a space where partners feel heard, respected, and valued. My sessions are more than just conversations; they are journey towards understanding, empathy, and stronger bonds. I integrate techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), tailoring them to fit the unique dynamics of your relationship.
How I Can Help:
Whether you're facing communication hurdles, intimacy issues, just looking to strengthen your bond, my therapy sessions designed to address challenges. I focus on:
Enhancing communication skills for understanding.
Resolving conflicts in  constructive manner.
Rekindling intimacy / connection.
Navigating life transitions as a team.
Licensed in Texas and Florida:
My services are not limited to Houston. As a licensed therapist in both Texas and Florida, I offer flexibility and convenience, ensuring that no matter where you are, support is accessible.
Why Choose My Practice:
"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person."  -- Mignon McLaughlin
Choosing a therapist is a significant decision, and it's essential to find someone who resonates with you. My practice stands out because:
I offer a personalized approach/understanding.
My experience and training in DBT and CBT provide a robust framework for therapy.
I'm committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for you.
With licenses in Texas and Florida, I offer a broad reach to support more couples.
Your relationship deserves the best care / attention. In Houston, Texas, and across Florida, I'm here to offer support. If you're ready to embark on journey of growth and connection with your partner, reach out today. Let's navigate these together.
Integrating Sex Therapy and Gottman Method in Couples Counseling
As a therapist certified in Sex Therapy and the Gottman Method, I bring a unique / comprehensive approach to counseling. These certifications reflect commitment to understanding / addressing the complex dynamics of relationships / intimacy.
Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP):
My certification in Sex Therapy equips me with specialized knowledge and skills to address wide range of sexual concerns. This includes issues such as desire, performance, satisfaction, and impact of health conditions on sexual well-being. In my practice, I create a safe, non-judgmental space that you can discuss and explore your sexual concerns and desires. My approach is holistic, considering emotional, physical, and psychological aspects of sexuality. This enables me to guide you in understanding and embracing your sexual self, enhancing your personal well-being and your relationships.
Level 2 Certified Gottman Therapist:
The Gottman Method, grounded in over 40 years of research, offers a practical / effective approach to improving relationships. As a Level 2 Certified Gottman Therapist, I utilize this method to help couples understand each other, manage conflict constructively, and build a shared sense of purpose and meaning in relationship. My training in the Gottman Method has equipped me with specific tools and strategies, such as the Sound Relationship House Theory and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, which I tailor in each couple's unique dynamics. The focus is in fostering open communication, deepening emotional connections, and resolving conflicts in a healthy, constructive manner.
Combining These Approaches:
Integrating Sex Therapy and the Gottman Method allows me to offer a comprehensive approach to couples. While the Gottman Method provides a strong foundation in relationship dynamics and communication, the Sex Therapy certification allows me to address the often-challenging area of sexual intimacy and health. This combination ensures all aspects of relationship are cared for, from emotional / communicative to physical / intimate.
My dual certification in Sex Therapy and the Gottman Method represents holistic approach to couples counseling. Whether you facing challenges in communication, intimacy, trust, or seeking to enhance your relationship, my approach is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we can work towards a healthier, more fulfilling relationship, where both emotional and sexual intimacy are nurtured and also celebrated.
"“There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved.” "  -- George Sand
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"Embrace the journey of love and healing; every step taken strengthens the bond and unites hearts."  -- Ehsan Shabahang
Start the Conversation
I encourage you to schedule a session with me at no cost to discuss what may feel right for you. This gives you an opportunity to ask questions about any concerns that you may have that can be related to my counseling and to see whether we are a good fit to work together.
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atreef · 8 months
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Remote Work: How Does It Affect Relationship Dynamics?
Over the past decades, the development in technology and information has enabled more opportunities for employees to transition from on-site roles to remote work (Howe & Menges, 2022). This transition that has been recently growing brings the question of its effect on career satisfaction and the resulting contribution to relationship resilience. 
Research on Career Satisfaction and Relationship Dynamics
Many scholars have researched the effectiveness of remote work, career satisfaction, and relationship dynamics. Howe & Menges (2022) examined the development of a new area, primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on work performance. The study concentrated on adjustability and demographic differences, suggesting work enhancement and productivity growth. However, they concluded that the effectiveness of career satisfaction results from an individual's mindset and belief in their capabilities (Howe & Menges, 2022). Concerning job and life satisfaction incorporating factors such as stress, self-esteem, and self-efficacy, Kondratowicz et al. (2022) incorporated 283 employees to determine the relationship between performing remote work and the satisfaction level of job and life. The study by Kondratowicz et al. (2022) found that remote work is associated with a higher level of job and work satisfaction. Feelings such as self-efficacy and self-esteem have a significant impact on the level of job satisfaction (Kondratowicz et al., 2022). Shimura et al. (2021) incorporated a multivariate logistic regression analysis in the context of decreased psychological and physical stress. Kondratowicz et al. (2022) demonstrated that remote work also supported the reduction of psychological and physical stress.
Moreover, the supportive factor contributing to the result is the level of support received within the family, playing an essential role in adaptability (Shimura et al., 2021). Establishing the positive influence of remote work on career satisfaction and career advancement is necessary to shift our focus to its effects on relationship dynamics and home life. Communication is the coping element of a couple's relationship, with quality and adequate communication creating a higher level of satisfaction (Weber et al., 2023). Working from home can create a better space for couples to discuss, share, and express emotions. Ass Purba et al. (2021) indicate in their study that married men reported a significantly better quality of life than pre-pandemic.
However, there is a gap in the above five research as they mainly focus on one aspect in each given study, and they do not incorporate a cross-examination of past relationship satisfaction of on-site employees vs. relationship satisfaction of remote workers and the role career plays in relationship dynamic utilizing an in-depth analysis of factors contributing to relationship resilience. Further exploration of this gap can provide in-depth clarification of the impact remote work can have on the career outlook and the opportunity it can provide for relationship satisfaction. 
Career Satisfaction and Relationship Dynamics
Factors Contributing to Relationship Resilience
This research aims to identify the positive impact of working from home on career advancement, considering job satisfaction, career path, and relationship resilience. This study will explore the positive effect of remote work on relationship resilience by exploring various variables as remote work position rises. Understanding the nexus between remote and on-site work can benefit not only the employees but also the employers. This study aims to examine the relationship between categorical variables and understand the satisfaction level utilizing high, medium, and low levels. 
Research Question
           The Nexus Between Remote Work and Relationship Dynamics: An In-Depth Analysis of Factors Contributing to Relationship Resilience.
Research Hypotheses and Variables
The research hypotheses for this study will start with our first hypothesis, which can examine the significant association between remote work vs. on-site work and career satisfaction. The second hypothesis is to show a significant association between the nature of work (remote vs. on-site) and the level of relationship resilience. The third hypothesis is the level of career satisfaction and its impact on the level of relationship resilience. Finally, the fourth hypothesis is the family support level and the relationship between the nature of psychological and physical stress. For this study, the independent variable is the nature of work (remote or on-site), and the dependent variable is the career satisfaction levels (high, medium, low). The optional operationalization of variables includes the nature of work determined by whether the participants are engaged in remote or on-site work. This study seeks to measure career satisfaction using a standardized relationship resilience scale. The psychological and physical stress level is measured using a standardized stress assessment tool, and the family support level is measured through a self-reported questionnaire on perceived family support. 
Factors Contributing to Relationship Resilience
Relevance
As we move with technology and advancement on a daily basis, more and more of our daily operations and responsibilities are becoming technology-focused and depend more on automation, resulting in many jobs focusing on executing such procedures from the background. Furthermore, with the rise of cost, more and more companies favor remote work, thus the era of new work expectations. Likewise, with the rise of social media and online careers, many gravitate toward working from home. However, what is the impact of such roles on relationships and personal fulfillment, as well as the impact on future career satisfaction and the resilience of relationships? Is working from home bad for relationships, or can it be seen as a positive factor that, if seen and understood correctly, can add value to our lives by being seen as an advantage? This study seeks to provide the necessary means for employees and employers, resulting in career satisfaction and better performance outcomes.  
Theoretical Foundation
The theoretical foundation of this study is primarily embedded in a socio-ecological framework that suggests individual behavior is primarily shaped via the association of personal, relational, and environmental factors. A multi-layer context can better support understanding career satisfaction and its complex dynamic. It also can be a tool to understand the relationship between work-life balance and how work can enhance relationship resilience. This framework is commonly seen as both career and relationship dynamic. The versatility of this framework allows this study to utilize various variables and multiple levels that contribute to a more holistic understanding.
References
Howe, L. C., & Menges, J. I. (2022). Remote work mindsets predict emotions and productivity in the home office: A longitudinal study of knowledge workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Human-Computer Interaction, 37(6), 481-507. 10.1080/07370024.2021.1987238
Kondratowicz, B., Godlewska-Werner, D., Połomski, P., & Khosla, M. (2022). Satisfaction with job and life and remote work in the COVID-19 pandemic: the role of perceived stress, self-efficacy, and self-esteem. Current Issues in Personality Psychology, 10(1), 49-60. 10.5114/cipp.2021.108097
Purba, F. D., Kumalasari, A. D., Novianti, L. E., Kendhawati, L., Noer, A. H., & Ninin, R. H. (2021). Marriage and quality of life during COVID-19 pandemic. PloS One, 16(9), e0256643. 10.1371/journal.pone.0256643
Shimura, A., Yokoi, K., Ishibashi, Y., Akatsuka, Y., & Inoue, T. (2021). Remote Work Decreases Psychological and Physical Stress Responses, but Full-Remote Work Increases Presenteeism. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 730969. 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.730969
Weber, D. M., Lavner, J. A., & Beach, S. R. H. (2023). Couples' communication quality differs by topic. Journal of Family Psychology, 10.1037/fam0001111
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atreef · 10 months
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How Reality Works! & How to Command It (Scientific Proof)
Venture deep into the labyrinth of the human mind in our latest video. Unearth groundbreaking discoveries about how our memories shape our reality and the enigmatic power of collective misremembering known as the Mandela Effect. Explore John Wheeler's intriguing delayed choice experiment, learn about the transformative research on neuroplasticity, and ponder on Carl Pribram's holographic brain theory. Prepare to have your perception of reality challenged and reshaped. This is not just about memory—it's about the essence of our existence."
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atreef · 11 months
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The AI Revolution | AI A New Era for Mental Health is an Enhancement
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Picture this; You're sitting at your desk, while your tasks are piling up, and procrastination is your uninvited guest. Then, you remember, you have a secret weapon: an artificial intelligence called ChatGPT. Get ready, because today, we're diving deep into six transformative ways that your AI ally, can positively impact your mental health. From pushing back against procrastination to providing coping strategies.
This journey isn't about replacing professional help, but exploring how AI can extend a helping hand.
Just imagine, you're in the middle of a hectic day, feeling mentally exhausted and foggy. The first way artificial intelligence comes to your aid is through cognitive decluttering. In his groundbreaking research, cognitive psychologist George Miller, discovered the concept of "chunking", which means breaking down complex information into bite-sized pieces. Drawing from Miller's findings, ChatGPT helps you declutter your thoughts, making your mental processes more efficient and improving your overall focus.
Now picture those moments when you're overwhelmed with emotions and don't have an outlet to express them. This is where ChatGPT steps in as a non-judgmental listener. Carl Rogers, a pioneer of person-centered therapy, emphasized the therapeutic effect of empathy. In keeping with this, Chat-GPT offers an understanding, bias-free platform for you to unload your thoughts and feelings, thereby reducing your anxiety and stress levels.
And I'm frightened because I kind of feel that they're. Having to be sure it isn't cancer, and that really frightens me terribly...
I think it's when I let that thought come to me,
"Well, maybe it is, and what it it is...?"
-that's when I felt so dreadfully alone.
it is really something like that. Then you just feel so alone.
Imagine you've got a big dream, a goal that seems too far away. Guided by Edwin Locke's Goal-Setting Theory, which emphasizes the motivational role of high goals and feedback, Chat-GPT helps you break down those big dreams into manageable steps. Like a diligent digital companion, it keeps you accountable, focused, and on track toward reaching your milestones.
Think about those tasks you've been putting off, falling into the trap of procrastination. Joseph Ferrari's research reveals that structured environments significantly reduce procrastination. Here, AI shines as a task manager, creating an organized environment that curbs your inclination to postpone tasks.
And then there's the aspiration to learn, to grow. In her research, Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck highlighted the concept of a "growth mindset," a belief that abilities can be developed. With its expansive knowledge base, Chat-GPT is your perfect companion for this continuous learning journey. Whether it's learning a new language or understanding quantum physics, AI is always ready to guide you.
Finally, when it comes to making choices, we often fall prey to cognitive biases. Nobel Laureate in Economics, Daniel Kahneman, emphasizes the pitfalls of these biases in decision-making.
We need that positive illusion in order to achieve something.
The balance between illusion and realism and how much optimism you want and how much realism you want. That is a major issue. But to be aware of the error. That, I think, is unquestionably worthwhile.
As an AI, Chat-GPT can provide an unbiased perspective, helping you make more informed and rational decisions.
Chat-GPT stands as a transformative AI tool, reshaping how we navigate our mental well-being, all backed by solid research and a deep understanding of human psychology. So, get ready to embrace this digital revolution and take a significant step towards better mental health with artificial intelligence!
We need more of an understanding of human nature because the only real danger that exists is man himself. He is the great danger. And we are pitifully unaware of it. We know nothing of man. Far too little. This should be studied because we are the origin of all coming evil.
TRUST, JOIN, BECOME ONE
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atreef · 11 months
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🚀Journey with us as we explore six powerful ways ChatGPT, an AI by OpenAI, is transforming mental health care.😌From sparking creativity to building emotional resilience, find out how this technological marvel is a game-changer!💡🎯0:00 - AI A New Era for Mental Health0:27 - The ChatGPT Revolution0:37 - AI for Cognitive Decluttering1:06 - AI as a Non-judgmental Listener1:57 - AI for Goal-setting2:20 - AI as a Task Manager2:38 - AI for Learning and Growth3:01 - AI for Decision-making3:37 - AI Mind Enhancement or control Embrace the
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atreef · 1 year
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🚀🌟 Discover the Secrets to Reducing Stress and Anxiety! 🌟🚀Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? 😩 In this transformative video, we dive deep into effective stress management techniques that will change your life! 🌈✨🔹 Learn how to reduce stress and anxiety with proven strategies 🧘‍♀️🔹 Discover the power of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) and meditation for stress relief 🧠💪🔹 Find out how to manage stress at work and in your daily life 🏢💼🔹 Get insights on how to reduce stress hormones for optimal well-being 🌱Join Ehsan Adib Shabahang as he guides you through these powerful methods that will help you relieve stress and live a more balanced life! 🌟🙌Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more amazing content! 📢🔔
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atreef · 1 year
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People's actions speak louder than their words. Don't mistake their need for love. 💔 #realizations #truth #selflove (at Houston, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqYoqnBuoTI/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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atreef · 1 year
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Embracing the chaos, one deep breath at a time 🌪️💪 #PanicToPower (at Houston, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqWvqWWr82W/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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atreef · 1 year
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Mastering Boundaries and Communication: A Path to Healthier Relationships
Setting boundaries and improving communication can make your life more enjoyable. These strategies promote self-awareness, respect, and admiration in yourself. By understanding your limits and ensuring your values and needs are protected, you will feel more assertive.
Additionally, improved communication can build stronger connections with family members. Active listening and expressing your feelings and thoughts lead to more meaningful interactions, helping everyone get to know one another better and create a supportive and nurturing atmosphere.
These skills can also have a beneficial effect on relationships outside your family. Establishing strong boundaries and communicating effectively will enable you to navigate friendships, romantic connections, and professional connections more successfully. Your life will become richer with meaningful connections that enhance it all.
Healthy relationships require boundaries to be set and communication to improve. Following these principles can help you create a life that is filled with understanding, respect, empathy, and emotional wellbeing.
Your mental and emotional well-being
Your mental and emotional well-being are essential for successfully managing relationships. By creating a healthy emotional space for yourself and your family while still respecting their feelings, needs, and autonomy, these boundaries can help alleviate anxiety and stress caused by unwanted intrusions into private life.
Conversely, improved communication fosters understanding and empathy between family members. You can create a supportive atmosphere by being honest about your feelings and thoughts. Engaging in more candid conversations with your loved ones about any concerns or issues will reduce the potential for misinterpretations or misunderstandings.
Establishing boundaries and improving communication with your family members will help foster stronger bonds while also maintaining personal integrity and emotional wellbeing.
By prioritizing communication and boundaries, you can give yourself the power to create a sense of control in your life. Not only does this improve stress management and anxiety prevention, but it also has positive effects on mental health, helping you overcome challenges with an upbeat outlook.
Your communication skills can help you develop emotional intelligence. This means being able to recognize and comprehend both your own emotions and those of others. As you become more aware and compassionate about the emotions in your relationships, responding with empathy, compassion, and thoughtfulness becomes second nature. Not only does this trait facilitate relationships with others, but it also gives you a deeper insight into yourself emotionally.
Create trust and safety
Create trust and safety in your family by setting boundaries and improving communication. Trust is built when family members feel heard and respected; this creates a safe space for everyone to express themselves without fear of ridicule or dismissal, leading to a more supportive atmosphere in your dynamic.
These abilities give you the unique opportunity to serve as a role model for younger family members, modeling communication and boundaries so others can be inspired to do the same. Doing so will result in improved relationships and enhanced emotional wellbeing for all concerned.
With improved communication and boundary-setting skills, you will experience an increase in self-assurance and self-worth. You will feel better prepared to face life's obstacles with increased assurance. These abilities will benefit all areas of your life, personal relationships included, as well as career success.
Establishing boundaries and improving communication are essential for you and your family's well-being. Cultivating emotional intelligence and trust will allow you to make a positive impact in your life while increasing self-worth.
To create healthy boundaries and encourage communication, follow these steps:
Reflect: Take time to assess your needs, values, and limitations. Recognize those parts of your relationships that make you feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable and create boundaries accordingly.
Be specific: Define your boundaries by taking into account both physical and emotional elements. Choose how much information you are willing to share or limit personal space and physical touch.
Communicate confidently: Respectfully and assertively communicate your boundaries with family members, while avoiding sounding accusatory by using "I" statements. Be specific when outlining expectations.
Practice active listening: Pay attention to what others say without interrupting and be open to their thoughts and emotions. Doing so demonstrates your respect for their opinion, leading to honest communication.
Cultivate empathy: Empathy is achieved by placing yourself in someone else's shoes and seeking to understand their emotions and viewpoint. Doing this helps create a supportive, understanding atmosphere for your relationships.
Impose consequences: If your boundaries have been breached, be prepared to impose consequences. You could withdraw from the relationship, reduce contact, or have a deeper discussion about what's going on.
Stay consistent: Be clear in your boundaries and communicate them clearly. Consistency is essential so others can respect and comprehend your boundaries.
Encourage open communication: Encourage family members to provide feedback on communication issues so that you can gain valuable insight and identify strategies for improvement. This will give you insight into any existing communication difficulties you may be facing and give you a chance for improvement.
Be flexible and adaptable: Flexibility and adaptability are essential. Be aware that relationships may evolve and boundaries may need to be adjusted as necessary. Be flexible enough to reevaluate and adjust your boundaries as necessary.
Prioritize self-care: Self-care is an effort to prioritize your mental and emotional wellbeing. It may be challenging to set boundaries or improve communication, but self-care should always come first.
Now lets summaries
By following these steps, you'll be on the path to creating healthier boundaries and improving communication within your relationships. Improved communication and boundaries in your relationships will lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling life, benefiting both your personal and professional connections.
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atreef · 1 year
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Why Boundaries are important in relationships and how to set them effectively?
Boundaries are an essential element of healthy relationships because they help to keep a balance between you and your partner. They also help reduce conflict, because they set an example of what you both expect from each other. Having boundaries can bring you closer to your partner because they keep open communication.
It is essential to have personal boundaries to have healthy relationships. Personal Boundaries are important because you set basic guidelines of how you want to be treated. The problem is with boundary violators, they don’t know what boundaries are. It is your job to teach them about your boundaries for your own mental health and wellness.
Here are 5 tips for setting healthy boundaries in your relationship.
Understand boundaries are healthy for your relationship.
Boundaries are an essential element of healthy relationships because they help to keep a balance between you and your partner. They also help reduce conflict, because they set an example of what you both expect from each other. Having boundaries can bring you closer to your partner because they keep open communication.
Be honest about what you need:
Communication is the key to a healthy relationship. Conversing openly is an important part of every healthy relationship. When discussing boundaries with your partner, being honest about what you are comfortable with or not comfortable with will help in knowing what you expect from them. You could even write down your expectations so it will be easy while sharing them with your partner.
Indicate When You Need Space
This tip is particularly relevant at the moment. If you’re spending a lot of time together mostly, be sure to interact with each other when you need time alone. It’s just as important to set aside time for yourself as it is to have quality time with the person you admire.
Listen to What Your Partner Needs
Since you expect your partner to notice your boundaries, it’s also important to thoroughly listen to their needs as well. Relationships are a two-way road, so you will need to listen to the boundaries they want to set and discuss those as well. Remember, that in a relationship, you should be able to say anything, but the way you say it matters a lot. So, be a good listener when your partner is expressing.
Communicate With Respect
Healthy relationships demand respect from both sides. The best way to communicate your boundaries is with understanding, compassion, and respect for each other’s expectations. Having respect each time you communicate will eventually make your relationship healthier and stronger. 
How to Set Healthy Boundaries
Step 1. Be as clear and as straightforward as possible. Do not raise your voice.
Step 2. State your need or request directly in terms of what you’d like, rather than what you don’t want or like.
Step 3. Accept any discomfort that arises as a result, whether it’s guilt, shame, or remorse.
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atreef · 1 year
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If you know someone who is depressed, then this video is for you! In it, I'm sharing 5 simple ways you can help someone with depression. From providing support to listening to and understanding, these tips can help someone start to feel better.Knowing how depression works can help you better support struggling loved ones.Chapters:0:00 An intro to helping someone with depression0:24 My experience with depression1:38 Understanding clinical depression4:01 What you can do to help someone with depression4:47 1 - Encourage them to seek professional help5:57 2 - Help them get moving6:35 3 - Offer validation and encouragement8:45 4 - Foster social support9:09 5 - Take care of yourselfIf you're looking for ways to help someone with depression, then this video is for you! In it, I'm sharing 5 simple ways you can help someone who is in a difficult situation. From providing support to listening to and understanding, these tips can help someone start to feel better.Talk to someone today988 Suicide
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atreef · 1 year
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7 Tips for Helping Someone with Depression! This is What You Need to Know.
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atreef · 2 years
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In this video, we're exploring what self-compassion is and why we need it. We'll talk about how self-compassion can help us feel better emotionally and discuss some ways we can practice self-compassion in our everyday lives.Self-compassion is an important and under-recognized skill, and this video is aimed at helping you learn more about it and put it to use in your life. By the end of this video, you'll better understand what self-compassion is and why it's so important.
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atreef · 2 years
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What is self-compassion, and why do we need it?
Do you sometimes find it difficult to be kind to yourself? In this blog, I will explore self-compassion, its components, and some of its most common myths. We'll also share some strategies for developing and practicing self-compassion, so you can feel better about yourself and your progress in life.
Thanks for reading my blog and watching my video! I hope this video has helped you understand self-compassion a little better and that you'll be able to use it to cope successfully with the challenges life throws your way.
What is Self-compassion?
Self-compassion means being warm and understanding toward ourselves when we fail, feel inadequate, or suffer rather than ignoring our pain or flagellating.
"Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others."  -- Christopher Germer
Having self-compassion for oneself is no different than having compassion for others. So to start, you can think about what the experience of self-compassion feels like. First, in order to have compassion for others, you must notice suffering. If you ignore a homeless person on the street, you can not feel compassionate for how difficult their experience is, was, or could be. Second, compassion involves one feeling moved by others’ suffering, so your heart responds to their pain (the word compassion means to “suffer with”). When this occurs, you feel warmness, caring, and the urge to support the suffering person somehow. Compassion also implies showing understanding and/or kindness to others when they fail rather than judging them harshly. Finally, when you feel compassion for others (rather than mere pity), you realize that suffering, failure, and imperfection are part of the shared human experience.
A video to explain it all
In this video, we're exploring what self-compassion is and why we need it. We'll talk about how self-compassion can help us feel better emotionally and discuss some ways we can practice self-compassion in our everyday lives.
Self-compassion is an important and under-recognized skill, and this video is aimed at helping you learn more about it and put it to use in your life. By the end of this video, you'll better understand what self-compassion is and why it's so important.
Self-Compassion Break
A sense of self-love is central to self-compassion. It recognizes that all humans are flawed "works-in-progress" and that everyone makes mistakes, fails, and experiences hardship in life. Thus, self-compassion honors the unavoidable truth that life assumes suffering, for everyone, without exception. While this may seem obvious, it’s so effortless to forget. We sometimes fall into the trap of believing things are just “supposed” to go well and that something has gone wrong when they don’t. Of course, it’s highly likely that we’ll make mistakes and experience hardships regularly. This is entirely normal and natural.
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atreef · 2 years
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What Makes a Relationship Successful?
Successful long-term relationships
In a long-term relationship, it’s easy to presume you know all about your partner, though people change. Try to be mindful of what is transpiring in your relationship and understand who your partner is and where they are at. Remain curious around but respectful of each other. It is really important to stay up to date with your partner. Friendship is at the basis of all successful long-term relationships. Successful couples tend to be realists who recognize that a relationship will go through ups and downs.
Seeking help for relationship problems
If something in your relationship is difficult or painful to talk to each other about, consider seeing a counselor. A counselor can be of great value to help you talk things through, particularly if you are going over old terrain and each of you is feeling isolated, disappointed, or hurt by the lack of progress.
What Makes a Relationship Successful?
Is it the consistent dedication between partners, the presence of unhindered communication, or the aspiration for continuous growth? With no definite answer comes the arrival of theories that may constitute that "success," creating professions such as marriage counseling and couple therapy. However, the existence of these services is made possible due to the conglomerate of humans' inability to untangle the intricate spiderweb that is love. To seek help from a counselor or a therapist is nothing to be ashamed of, as love can be a complex maze that may require guidance from time to time. This source of guidance is relayed by therapists who attempt to clarify the underlying problems of these troubled couples. One of the main basis for continuous elucidation would be the discussion of gendered discourse revolving around the concept of emotion, the aspect of positive and negative outcomes, and the relevance of therapist interruptions.
The outlook on therapy sessions revolve around many fields, whether psychology, sociology, anthropology, etc. This has allowed a variety of ideologies to be formed, with some contorted to just one linear perspective while others share multiple schools of thought. Olga Sutherland, an associate professor from the University of Guelph, takes a feminist approach to the gendered construction of couples therapy. Within one of Sutherland's case studies, she examines the dynamic of domestic labor, where she exclaims, "In this excerpt, we notice the following sexist assumptions concerning gender: 1. Caring labor is inherently women's (and not men's) work; 2. Caring labor is minimal and insignificant" (p. 7). The excerpt Sutherland pulls from revolves around a couple's allocation of domestic tasks and caring for children, in which the partners were previously separated due to the husband's career. There is no denying that childcare is often disproportionately assigned to women to do the lion's share of the work but to delineate a male's viewpoint to disregard the importance of caring labor conveys an approach of gender bias. Sutherland's snippet already portrays the husband in a negative limelight, as the audience is heavily skewed to support the wife after being notified that the husband had an affair. Instead of introducing a passage that asserts both parties are on equal footing, the audience has already fixated that the husband, and the male community, are "contempt" and "lazy" regarding domestic duties. With such a linear interpretation, Sutherland presents herself as a figurehead to bombast men's wrongdoings to push her feminist agenda without understanding that a relationship is a collaborative effort.
To acknowledge that a relationship is a collaborative effort is to recognize that there are gender differences when it comes to differentiation, emotional reactivity, and marital dynamics. The ability to make a selfless decision regarding your spouse's level of criticism, emotional flooding, and conflict resolution can provide a guideline for improved functioning and individual maturity. Within a case study revolving around one hundred sixty-nine couples completing measures of Bowen's concept of differentiation/individuation and Gottman's concepts related to current marital dynamics, Gubbins argues that "...in the men's analyses, the women's level of individuation was not descriptive of the independent variate that was associated with the men's level of emotional flooding during arguments and satisfaction with the marriage. The opposite was true for the women's analyses. For women, the men's level of individuation was an important descriptor of the independent variate that was associated with the wives' level of emotional flooding during disagreements and satisfaction in the marriage" (p. 393). Gubbins reveals that women are more emotionally sensitive to their partners' moral state than men. This finding is directly aligned with the studies of gender differences which indicate that males have a stronger foresight for independence and separation while women institute a larger concern toward connection and togetherness. Marital success has to be adaptive as couples have to find a keen balance between separateness and connection.
There is serenity with balance, as couples should acknowledge a median and a sense of stability to constructive disagreements along with the presentation of blissful moments. Understanding the causality of these outcomes requires an assessment of both males and females to aggregate their dispositions for their relationship's successes and difficulties. Through the expansion of the marital attribution coding system, Stabb uncovers that "Women were thus seen as contributing to negative relationship outcomes over a longer period of time and across more types of situations than men; men were seen as contributing to positive relationship outcomes over a longer period of time and across more situations than women" (p. 342). The gendered attribution of women inducing more negative relationship outcomes follows traditional psychotherapy, which entails increased opportunities to pathologize women in a therapeutic space. The negative outlook that women have upon themselves may be due to their prevalence of obligation and self-sacrifice that society has circumvented them into. Conversely, men integrate a mindset of persistent confidence that ensures a cultural perception of preferred masculinity. This promotion of masculinity often equates dominance and aggression as vital to survival and prosperity. With so many culturally ingrained patterns of gendered attribution and communication, it may be difficult for anyone to challenge the status quo, but therapists can by building a solid rapport with their clients that promotes inclusivity, openness, and trustworthiness.
The integration of having a harmonious relationship with one's client is known as a therapeutic alliance. A therapeutic alliance is a relationship between therapists and their clients with how connective they are in accomplishing their goals, facilitating change, and instituting behaviors. A proponent that challenges a therapeutic alliance would be the frequency and target of those interruptions. Megan Oka, a licensed marriage and family therapist examined the association between interruptions and therapeutic alliance to conclude that "One of the most important findings for our purposes was that female therapists' interruption of men negatively impacted their alliance with both their male and female clients" (p. 12). The indication of the negative impact that female therapists had upon both male and female clients implies that males are apathetic to the routines of therapy, causing women to be less instigative in fear of making them more perturbed. Women tend to be the ones to initiate couple therapy, making them more invested and attuned than their male counterparts. Oka also reveals how interruptions upon female clients don't affect therapeutic alliance through two possible reasonings: "First, women are so used to being interrupted in society that it does not bother them when a therapist does it (James & Clarke, 1993). The second is that women in therapy are more concerned with their partner's reactions to the therapist than they are to their own reactions" (p. 12). The conclusion that Oka produces relays back to a woman's stature of being "feeble" within the confines of a society that has molded their muted presence. There is also an implication of a man's quintessence for self-reliance that rejects the supposed helpfulness of therapy to disparage any veil of vulnerability.
Within a relationship, the potential for growth is substantial, as the lessons of endearment, patience, and curiosity are magnified with a significant other. However, with such growth may come ignorance, as one can become so accustomed to their partner's thoughts and beliefs that they deafen their ears from simply listening. Therapy is an instituted practice that brings that sentiment back for those lost couples through the emphasis on emotion, the pathway of outcomes, and the implication of interruptions.
Tips for a successful relationship
The following tips may help you improve your relationship (and be better prepared to meet the challenges along the way):
Talk to each other and communicate your needs
If you have something to bring up, do it gently
Listen to each other
Remember the positives about your partner
Make repair attempts
Spend time together
Work on feeling good about yourself
Accept and value differences in others, including your partner
Make plans
Be supportive
Learn from arguments
Stay calm during disagreements
Look at your part in the conflict rather than focusing only on your partner’s contribution
Be sexually considerate
Be attentive
Enjoy yourself
Be flexible
Share power
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