Being likable isn’t the ultimate goal in life, but it undeniably makes all relationships smoother and more rewarding. Research in interpersonal effectiveness consistently shows that likability is less about personality traits and more about observable, learnable behaviors. In other words, it’s not something you’re simply born with; it’s something you practice. At its core, likability…

It’s a frustration many married couples experience -how to deal with the complicated issues that arise with extended family. Yet when we marry, we inevitably inherit part of our partner’s family system. Pretending otherwise is not a strategy. Whether we acknowledge it or not, our families shape who we are. Parts of that family live…

Every relationship, whether marriage, friendship, or family, hits rough patches. The difference between couples who grow stronger and those who drift apart often comes down to one thing: whether they address problems directly or avoid them. In clinical practice and decades of relationship research, certain themes appear repeatedly. The good news? We also have strong…

Relationships can be the source of our greatest joy—and sometimes, our greatest frustration. Whether it’s between couples, family members, or close friends, most relationships face recurring challenges that, left unaddressed, can grow into major problems. Let’s look at a few of the most common issues couples face with practical, faith-based ways to repair and strengthen…

More from Beliefnet and our partners
More from Beliefnet and our partners