Close
Premium Podcast Help Contact Dr. Laura Dr. Laura Designs Return to DrLaura.com
Join Family Premium Login Family

Letters From Listeners

What My Parents Taught Me About Relationships
02/28/2017


I grew up in a home where my parents fought a lot and always in front of me. I actually have a memory of getting in between them during a conflict to help settle a disagreement. I was probably 12 years old.

I don't want to blame them for my behavior; however, it did impact me and my relationships as an adult. It had a lasting impact on my relationship with my former spouse and also with my close friendships. I used to believe that every significant relationship needed to have a giant blow out and then reconciliation. Then I knew the relationship was strong and meaningful. If the other person would continue to be with me after that, then they must love me.

I did not realize I was damaging my relationships with this behavior. I thought I was making them stronger. It took me decades to realize this. Now I know that conflict is not something I should create to prove the strength of the relationship. Treating the other person with respect, kindness, decency, and love, is the way to make the relationship meaningful and strong.



How do you make meaningful relationships? Send an email! Sign up for the FREE Dr. Laura Family and send an email here.

Tags: Attitude, Bad Childhood-Good Life, Behavior, Choose Wisely-Treat Kindly, Dating, Marriage, Relationships, Relatives
PERMALINK | EMAIL | PRINT | RSS  Subscribe
< Back to Letters From Listeners Archives