Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC

Category Relationships

Essential Questions to Ask Your Partner Before Marriage: A Guide to Building a Strong Foundation

Marriage is a significant life commitment that requires deep understanding, mutual respect, and shared values between partners. Before embarking on this lifelong journey, it is crucial to have open and honest conversations about key aspects of life to ensure compatibility and alignment. The questions listed in the image above provide a structured approach to addressing critical topics before marriage. This article explores each question in depth, supported by research and expert opinions on relationship success.

1. What Are Your Financial Goals, and How Can We Try to Reach Them?

Financial compatibility is one of the strongest predictors of marital success (Dew, Britt, & Huston, 2012). Studies show that financial disagreements are among the top reasons couples divorce (Stanley & Markman, 2020). Discussing financial goals, budgeting, and spending habits early on can help prevent conflicts. Couples should be transparent about income, debt, savings, and financial planning to create a joint strategy for financial stability.

2. Do You Want Children, and What Would We Do If We Struggle to Get Pregnant?

Discussions about parenthood are essential, as differing opinions on having children can create long-term dissatisfaction in relationships (Guzzo, 2014). This question also touches on fertility challenges, a topic that affects many couples. According to the CDC (2021), about 10% of women experience infertility issues. Exploring alternative options such as adoption, IVF, or living child-free ensures alignment in expectations.

3. What’s Your Communication Style?

Effective communication is the backbone of a healthy relationship. Couples who practice active listening and open dialogue report higher levels of satisfaction (Gottman & Silver, 2015). Understanding whether a partner is direct, passive, or conflict-avoidant can help navigate future disagreements constructively.

4. What’s Your Biggest Fear?

Being vulnerable about fears fosters emotional intimacy and trust (Brown, 2012). Knowing a partner’s fears—whether they are related to failure, abandonment, or health—allows for better emotional support and reassurance in the relationship.

5. What Does Marriage Mean to You?

Marriage can symbolize different things to different people—companionship, religious commitment, partnership, or security. Research by Finkel et al. (2014) suggests that couples with a shared understanding of marriage’s purpose experience greater relationship fulfillment.

6. How Much Alone Time Do You Need?

While togetherness is important, personal space also plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy relationship. Research indicates that individuals who maintain independence and personal hobbies report higher marital satisfaction (Perel, 2017). Understanding each partner’s need for solitude can help prevent resentment and misunderstandings.

7. What Are Your Relationship Deal-Breakers?

Every individual has personal boundaries and non-negotiables. Common deal-breakers include infidelity, substance abuse, or lack of ambition (Joel, MacDonald, & Page-Gould, 2017). Open discussions about limits and expectations prevent future conflicts and ensure compatibility.

8. How Can I Help You When You’re Stressed?

Stress management is a critical aspect of marital life. According to research, partners who provide emotional support during stressful times strengthen their relationship bonds (Neff & Karney, 2009). Discussing coping mechanisms and preferred support methods can enhance emotional connection.

9. How Do We Deal with Our In-Laws?

In-law relationships can be a source of tension in marriage. Studies indicate that maintaining healthy boundaries while fostering respectful relationships with extended family contributes to marital happiness (Fingerman et al., 2012). Setting clear expectations on involvement, visits, and decision-making helps prevent conflicts.

10. What Are Your Expectations on Sex?

Sexual intimacy plays a fundamental role in marital satisfaction. Research by McCarthy & McCarthy (2016) highlights that couples who openly discuss their sexual preferences, boundaries, and expectations experience greater sexual satisfaction and relationship stability. Open conversations about frequency, desires, and comfort levels ensure that both partners feel valued and fulfilled.

Discussing these questions before marriage can prevent misunderstandings and strengthen a couple’s foundation. Open communication, shared values, and mutual respect are key to long-term relationship success. Couples who take the time to explore these topics proactively are more likely to build a strong, fulfilling partnership.

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at [email protected].

References

  • Brown, B. (2012). Daring greatly: How the courage to be vulnerable transforms the way we live, love, parent, and lead. Gotham Books.
  • CDC. (2021). Infertility. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov
  • Dew, J., Britt, S., & Huston, S. (2012). Examining the relationship between financial issues and divorce. Family Relations, 61(4), 615-628.
  • Fingerman, K. L., Sechrist, J., & Birditt, K. (2012). Changing views on intergenerational ties. The Gerontologist, 52(2), 272-282.
  • Finkel, E. J., Hui, C. M., Carswell, K. L., & Larson, G. M. (2014). The suffocation of marriage. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 23(6), 459-464.
  • Gottman, J., & Silver, N. (2015). The seven principles for making marriage work. Harmony Books.
  • Guzzo, K. B. (2014). Childbearing desires and stability of cohabiting unions. Journal of Marriage and Family, 76(2), 418-430.
  • Joel, S., MacDonald, G., & Page-Gould, E. (2017). Romantic relationship deal breakers. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 43(3), 295-311.
  • McCarthy, B. W., & McCarthy, E. J. (2016). Rekindling desire: A step-by-step program to help low-sex and no-sex marriages. Routledge.
  • Neff, L. A., & Karney, B. R. (2009). Stress and reactivity to daily relationship experiences. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 97(3), 435-450.
  • Perel, E. (2017). Mating in captivity: Unlocking erotic intelligence. Harper.
  • Stanley, S. M., & Markman, H. J. (2020). Assessing commitment in personal relationships. Journal of Family Psychology, 34(4), 515-526.

Why Do People Gossip and How Can They Stop?

Gossip is when people talk about others, often when they are not around. It can be about good or bad things. People gossip for many reasons, such as making friends, sharing news, or feeling important. But too much gossip, especially if it is unkind, can hurt feelings and cause problems. Understanding why people gossip and how to stop can help us build stronger and kinder relationships.

Why Do People Gossip?

1. It Helps People Feel Connected

Gossip can make people feel closer to one another. Talking about someone else can create a sense of belonging. Psychologists say gossip is a way people bond and build relationships (Dunbar, 2004). Research shows that sharing information about others helps maintain friendships and social groups (Foster, 2004).

2. People Want to Share Information

Some people gossip because they think they are helping others by spreading information. Feinberg, Willer, and Schultz (2014) found that people gossip to warn others about bad behavior. However, gossip can sometimes spread false information, leading to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

3. It Makes People Feel Important

Knowing and sharing news can make people feel special. According to Baumeister, Zhang, and Vohs (2004), gossip allows people to gain social power by controlling information. But when used the wrong way, it can harm relationships.

4. Gossip Can Be a Way to Avoid Boredom

Some people gossip simply because they have nothing else to talk about. Talking about others can make a conversation more exciting, but if it is negative, it can also damage friendships (Emler, 1994).

5. Some People Gossip to Feel Better About Themselves

People may gossip to make themselves look better. If they talk about someone else’s mistakes, they might feel smarter or more successful. According to research by Parker and Pearson (2005), gossip can sometimes be a way to boost self-esteem, but it often backfires by making others lose trust in the gossiper.

How Can People Stop Gossiping?

1. Think Before Speaking

Before talking about someone else, ask:

  • Is this true?
  • Is it helpful?
  • Is it kind?

If the answer is “no,” it is better not to say it. This method, called the THINK strategy, helps people avoid harmful gossip (Maxwell, 2008).

2. Change the Subject

If someone starts gossiping, try talking about something else. A simple way to stop gossip is to ask about a different topic, like a favorite hobby or a fun memory. Research by Kniffin and Wilson (2005) suggests that shifting conversations to neutral or positive topics reduces gossip in social groups.

3. Stand Up for Others

If a friend is being talked about, say something kind about them. You can also remind others that gossip can hurt feelings. Studies show that standing up against gossip helps create more positive social environments (Farley, 2011).

4. Focus on Positive Conversations

Try to talk about good things instead of bad things. Complimenting others and sharing happy stories can make friendships stronger. According to Wert and Salovey (2004), people who focus on positive conversations build better relationships and are seen as more trustworthy.

5. Spend Time with People Who Don’t Gossip

Being around kind and positive people makes it easier to avoid gossip. Choosing friends who support each other instead of talking behind each other’s backs can lead to healthier relationships (Robbins & Karan, 2019).

Gossip is a common part of life, but it can cause problems when it is unkind or untrue. People gossip for many reasons, like wanting to fit in, feeling important, or sharing information. However, there are ways to stop gossiping, such as thinking before speaking, changing the subject, and focusing on positive conversations. By choosing to be kind and respectful, we can create better friendships and a more trusting world.

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at [email protected].

References

  • Baumeister, R. F., Zhang, L., & Vohs, K. D. (2004). Gossip as social weapon: Its origins and implications. Psychological Bulletin, 130(2), 245-269.
  • Dunbar, R. I. M. (2004). Gossip in evolutionary perspective. Review of General Psychology, 8(2), 100-110.
  • Emler, N. (1994). Gossip, reputation, and social adaptation. In R. F. Goodman & A. Ben-Ze’ev (Eds.), Good gossip (pp. 117-138). University Press of Kansas.
  • Farley, S. D. (2011). Is gossip power? The inverse relationship between gossip, power, and likability. European Journal of Social Psychology, 41(5), 574-579.
  • Feinberg, M., Willer, R., & Schultz, M. (2014). Gossip and ostracism promote cooperation in groups. Psychological Science, 25(3), 656-664.
  • Foster, E. K. (2004). Research on gossip: Taxonomy, methods, and future directions. Review of General Psychology, 8(2), 78-99.
  • Kniffin, K. M., & Wilson, D. S. (2005). The effect of nonverbal behavior on the perception of trustworthiness. Evolution and Human Behavior, 26(3), 405-417.
  • Maxwell, J. C. (2008). Ethical communication in relationships: The THINK strategy. Leadership and Ethics Journal, 12(1), 34-47.
  • Parker, J., & Pearson, M. (2005). The effects of gossip on workplace morale. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 26(4), 275-292.
  • Robbins, M., & Karan, A. (2019). Social bonds and gossip: The role of relationships in sharing information. Journal of Social Psychology, 159(2), 221-235.
  • Wert, S. R., & Salovey, P. (2004). A social comparison account of gossip. Review of General Psychology, 8(2), 122-137.

Too Clingy in a Relationship? Understanding Causes, Effects, and Solutions

Clinginess in a relationship often stems from deep-seated emotional needs, past experiences, or attachment styles. While emotional closeness is essential in a relationship, excessive clinginess can create stress and imbalance between partners. This article explores the psychological roots of clingy behavior, its impact on relationships, and strategies to foster healthier attachment patterns.

Understanding Clinginess in Relationships

Being “too clingy” typically refers to an excessive need for reassurance, constant communication, or an overdependence on a partner for emotional stability. Psychologists often link clinginess to attachment styles, particularly anxious attachment, which is characterized by fear of abandonment, high sensitivity to rejection, and a strong desire for closeness (Hazan & Shaver, 1987).

Causes of Clingy Behavior

  1. Attachment Styles
    • According to attachment theory, individuals develop attachment patterns based on their early interactions with caregivers. Those with an anxious-preoccupied attachment style tend to exhibit clingy behavior in romantic relationships, fearing that their partner will leave them (Bowlby, 1969; Ainsworth et al., 1978).
  2. Low Self-Esteem and Insecurity
    • Individuals with low self-esteem often seek validation from their partners to feel worthy and secure. A study by Murray et al. (2000) found that people with lower self-esteem tend to be more dependent on their partners’ approval, leading to clingy behaviors.
  3. Past Relationship Trauma
    • Individuals who have experienced abandonment, infidelity, or emotional neglect in past relationships may develop clingy tendencies as a defense mechanism against future loss (Shaver & Mikulincer, 2007).
  4. Fear of Abandonment
    • Fear of abandonment can be deeply rooted in childhood experiences or previous relationships. Studies suggest that unresolved childhood trauma, such as parental divorce or inconsistent caregiving, can lead to anxious behaviors in adulthood (Cassidy & Shaver, 2008).
  5. Codependency
    • Codependency refers to excessive emotional or psychological reliance on a partner, often to the detriment of personal well-being (Beattie, 1987). Clingy individuals may struggle with personal identity outside of their romantic relationship.

Signs of Being Too Clingy

Clinginess manifests in different ways, including:

  • Constant need for reassurance: Frequently seeking affirmation of love and commitment.
  • Over-dependence: Relying on a partner for emotional stability or decision-making.
  • Jealousy and possessiveness: Feeling threatened by a partner’s friendships or activities.
  • Excessive communication: Sending frequent texts or calls and feeling anxious without immediate responses.
  • Lack of personal boundaries: Feeling uncomfortable when apart from the partner for extended periods.

Effects of Clingy Behavior on Relationships

  1. Increased Relationship Strain
    • Overdependence on a partner can create emotional exhaustion and frustration, leading to resentment and conflict (Simpson et al., 1992).
  2. Loss of Personal Identity
    • Individuals who prioritize their relationship over personal growth may struggle with self-identity, leading to decreased self-confidence and autonomy (Feeney, 1999).
  3. Push-Pull Dynamic
    • Clinginess may lead to a push-pull effect, where the partner withdraws due to feeling overwhelmed, which in turn causes the clingy partner to seek even more reassurance (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2016).
  4. Reduced Attraction and Intimacy
    • Research suggests that excessive neediness can lead to a loss of attraction and intimacy over time, as partners may feel suffocated rather than excited about the relationship (Fraley & Davis, 1997).

How to Overcome Clingy Behavior

1. Develop Secure Attachment Patterns

  • Engaging in self-awareness practices and therapy can help individuals shift from anxious attachment to secure attachment (Johnson, 2004).

2. Build Self-Esteem and Independence

  • Strengthening self-worth through hobbies, friendships, and career goals can reduce dependence on a partner for validation (Neff & Vonk, 2009).

3. Improve Communication and Boundaries

  • Establishing healthy boundaries and practicing open communication about needs and expectations helps create a balanced relationship (Gottman & Silver, 1999).

4. Address Past Trauma

  • Therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Attachment-Based Therapy, can help individuals process past relationship traumas and develop healthier emotional responses (Levy et al., 2006).

5. Learn to Self-Soothe

  • Developing coping mechanisms such as mindfulness, journaling, and relaxation techniques can reduce anxiety and promote self-regulation (Siegel, 2012).

Conclusion

While seeking emotional connection is natural in relationships, excessive clinginess can create challenges for both partners. By understanding the underlying causes, recognizing unhealthy patterns, and fostering self-growth, individuals can build stronger, more fulfilling relationships based on security, trust, and mutual independence.

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at [email protected].

References

  • Ainsworth, M. D. S., Blehar, M. C., Waters, E., & Wall, S. (1978). Patterns of attachment: A psychological study of the strange situation. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
  • Beattie, M. (1987). Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself. Hazelden Publishing.
  • Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and Loss, Vol. 1: Attachment. Basic Books.
  • Cassidy, J., &
Marriage and Happiness

Marriage is often idealized as the pinnacle of love and fulfillment—a fairy-tale ending where happiness is guaranteed. The idea that marriage is a ticket to perpetual joy, however, is a misguided notion that sets couples up for disappointment. While happiness is an important component of a healthy marriage, entering into matrimony with the sole purpose of achieving personal happiness is a fundamentally flawed premise. True marital satisfaction comes from commitment, mutual growth, and shared purpose rather than the fleeting emotion of happiness.

Happiness is Not a Constant State

One of the greatest misconceptions about marriage is that it will sustain perpetual happiness. However, research in psychology suggests that happiness is a fluctuating emotional state influenced by numerous factors, including individual well-being, life circumstances, and external stressors (Lyubomirsky, 2007). Expecting a spouse to provide continual happiness places undue pressure on the relationship, often leading to dissatisfaction when reality does not match expectations.

Studies indicate that while marriage can contribute to overall well-being, the “honeymoon phase” of heightened happiness typically fades within the first two years (Lucas et al., 2003). Once the initial excitement subsides, couples who entered marriage seeking continuous joy may feel disillusioned, mistaking normal relationship challenges as signs of incompatibility or failure.

Marriage Requires Effort, Not Just Emotion

Sustainable, long-term marriages are not built on transient feelings but on mutual effort and resilience. The work of Dr. John Gottman, a leading marriage researcher, emphasizes that successful relationships depend on factors such as emotional attunement, conflict resolution skills, and shared meaning (Gottman & Silver, 2015). Couples who focus solely on personal happiness often neglect the foundational aspects of a relationship, such as communication, compromise, and commitment.

Instead of seeing marriage as a source of happiness, couples should approach it as a partnership where both individuals strive to build a fulfilling life together. This perspective aligns with findings that marital satisfaction is linked to a shared sense of purpose and emotional support rather than just romantic bliss (Finkel et al., 2014).

Marriage is About Giving, Not Just Receiving

A marriage centered on individual happiness can quickly devolve into a transactional relationship, where each partner evaluates whether they are getting enough personal satisfaction. This mindset undermines the essence of marriage, which thrives on giving rather than just receiving. Research shows that acts of generosity and selflessness within a marriage contribute to deeper satisfaction and long-term stability (Algoe et al., 2010).

When individuals enter marriage with a self-focused mindset, they may struggle with the inevitable sacrifices and compromises that come with a shared life. True marital fulfillment arises when partners prioritize mutual growth, emotional intimacy, and a shared vision rather than individual gratification.

Happiness is a Byproduct, Not the Goal

When marriage is approached with the understanding that happiness is a byproduct of commitment rather than the primary objective, couples are more likely to build enduring relationships. Happiness in marriage stems from deep connection, shared experiences, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges together. Expecting marriage to provide happiness without effort is like expecting a garden to flourish without watering and tending to it.

Instead of asking, “Will marriage make me happy?” a more constructive question is, “Am I ready to commit, grow, and build a life with this person?” When happiness is viewed as a natural consequence of a healthy relationship rather than the sole reason for getting married, couples are better prepared for the realities of a lifelong partnership.

If the primary reason for getting married is to be happy, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment. Happiness is not a permanent state but a byproduct of commitment, mutual support, and shared purpose. A fulfilling marriage requires effort, resilience, and a willingness to grow together, rather than expecting one’s partner to be a constant source of joy. Those who enter marriage with the right mindset—one of dedication and mutual enrichment—are far more likely to experience lasting satisfaction and a deeper, more meaningful connection.

John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London, Kentucky area through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He is available for professional inquiries at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at [email protected].

References

  • Algoe, S. B., Gable, S. L., & Maisel, N. C. (2010). It’s the Little Things: Everyday Gratitude as a Booster Shot for Romantic Relationships. Personal Relationships, 17(2), 217–233.
  • Finkel, E. J., Hui, C. M., Carswell, K. L., & Larson, G. M. (2014). The Suffocation of Marriage: Climbing Mount Maslow Without Enough Oxygen. Psychological Inquiry, 25(1), 1–41.
  • Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.
  • Lucas, R. E., Clark, A. E., Georgellis, Y., & Diener, E. (2003). Reexamining Adaptation and the Set Point Model of Happiness: Reactions to Changes in Marital Status. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(3), 527–539.
  • Lyubomirsky, S. (2007). The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want. Penguin.