The Dramatic Triangle and The Role We Play in It

Why are some relationships harmonious and happy and others seem like a struggle? Why does a personal or professional relationship that seemed good suddenly become difficult? The explanation can be found in the dramatic triangle and in the role played by each of us, according to the theory of Stephen Karpman, a transactional psychologist. Let’s … More The Dramatic Triangle and The Role We Play in It

The Gift of Empathy

A few months ago, my daughter and her best friend were doing an art project at my dining room table. My 6-year-old daughter announced that she didn’t like the color brown. And her best friend took offense at that because she is brown. I identify as heterosexual, white female. I am so unambiguous about that … More The Gift of Empathy

Active Listening

What is active listening? Do you like music? How do you listen to your favourite music? When I was a teenager, I used to learn by heart the lyrics of my favourite songs. Still today I try to do it. I can easily learn the lyrics if I listen carefully to the song and if … More Active Listening

How to Identify a Narcissistic Personality

The common definition of narcissism is the pursuit of gratification from vanity or egotistic admiration of one’s idealised self-image and attributes. Narcissists are people who believe to be unique, superior to others and masters of a wonderful existence that no one can imagine. As a result, they may be bullies and arrogant. They need constant … More How to Identify a Narcissistic Personality

What would you do? – Situational understanding

Ladies and Gentlemen! I stand before you here in this P.O. Amphitheatre to posit a scenario for us to ponder. We are a social species that (for the most part) behaves in accordance with a set of unspoken rules and expectations. I present before you a hypothetical situation that requires your judgement. I encourage you … More What would you do? – Situational understanding