Alexandra Stratyner, Ph.D., is a New York City-based licensed psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness skills training. Dr. Stratyner ...

Phillips cautions, “To say that a person is toxic is to reduce them to only bad qualities and dismiss any redeeming qualities or strengths. When we understand that ‘hurt people hurt people,’ we can ...

We all know the importance of fostering close social connections. Friends are great—until they’re not. Psychologists say they hear often about so-called toxic friendships, which veer away from the ...

Toxic Friendship : We meet all kinds of people in this world. There are some people who can prove to be very toxic for you. In such a situation, to maintain our mental peace, we should identify such ...

My whole life, I’ve tried to fit into big social groups. It seemed so fun to have many friends and do many cool things together. But every time I was part of such a crowd, something felt off. I couldn ...

Healthy friendships make life richer. Not only do they increase joy, but research shows they boost your immune system and may even help you live longer. For most, however, the actual value comes not ...

It’s normal if you don’t love all of your child’s friends. Your kids are allowed to have friends that aren’t exactly your cup of tea, and it’s important to let your child explore different kinds of ...

They decide your mood, your confidence, your weekend plans, your secrets, and sometimes even your hairstyle. Good friends make life feel lighter; toxic friends make life feel like you’re carrying a ...

A friendship that started with delight, good will, confidences and closeness changes – maybe slowly and quietly, maybe tumultuously – and is beginning to feel toxic. And you find yourself wondering ...