Hannah Rose – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Tue, 15 Nov 2016 06:35:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Hannah Rose – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 14 parenting tweets ALL parents can sadly relate to https://www.familytoday.com/family/14-parenting-tweets-all-parents-can-sadly-relate-to/ Tue, 15 Nov 2016 06:35:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/14-parenting-tweets-all-parents-can-sadly-relate-to/ You'll laugh. Then cry. Then laugh while crying.

The post 14 parenting tweets ALL parents can sadly relate to appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

1. Father's Day card

2. Rock stars

3. "Butt"

4. Celery never tastes good. EVER.

5. Cereal

6. Am I sick?

7. Modern day technology fail.

8. Couch

9. Yogurt struggles

10. Waxing

11. Pacifiers goodbye

12. Cut his own hair

13. Hide the tape

14. Mac'n Cheese to save the day

The post 14 parenting tweets ALL parents can sadly relate to appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
6 ways second chances can make you happier https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/6-ways-second-chances-can-make-you-happier/ Fri, 30 Sep 2016 11:23:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/6-ways-second-chances-can-make-you-happier/ Research reveals holding onto grudges and resentment may be bad for your future.

The post 6 ways second chances can make you happier appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

Admit it, you have that one person who annoys you to your wits' end. The two of you have never been able to see eye-to-eye and you have accepted that you probably never will. You've agreed there is no room for each other in the other's life, so you move on without them. Until ...

Until you run into them everywhere you go. You are at the same grocery store at the same time, you get invited to the same parties, you shop at the same stores and you even have several mutual friends. How can the person you hate actually be someone you have a lot in common with?

When you run into each other, you start up awkward conversations out of habit, and you eventually realize the other person is not as bad as you once thought. Experiences like these help us realize we may have incorrectly judged or falsely labeled them before we have even had the opportunity to get to know them.

Second chances and open-mindedness can save us from the sharp pang of resentment and help build longlasting friendships in relationships we might have once seen as sinking ships. Below are a some reasons why second chances can change your relationships and better your life.

1. You don't allow jealousy to rule your life

Acting upon envy can lead you to naturally distance yourself from someone you think is always going to be better than you. If you are able to place those threatening and competitive feelings aside and focus solely on the individual, you may learn why other people think they are so great. Second chances provide room for understanding and growth.

2. You won't miss out of potentially beautiful relationships

Someone else's description of another individual may be a little more than deceiving; it can be false and misleading at times. Be wary of individuals that paint others in a dark light in hopes to persuade you a certain way. Psychologist Susan Krauss Whitbourne suggests individuals be aware of individuals who dim other people's lights in hopes to make theirs shine brighter. Do not shut people out right away, instead give them the chance to impress you with their own impression not just their reputation.

3. You let go of bitterness and allow room for positive emotions

Opportunities for job advancements, social life expansion or joy in family life can be withheld from you if you choose to hold resentment towards another individual. Psychologist Keith Oatley described resentment in a recent study as an emotion associated with envy and destructive anger. Giving people second chances creates positive emotions to flow through ones mind and helps break down destructive habits of thought.

4. You'll be able to feel more appropriate emotions

In a study performed by University of California Davis professors Justin Caouette and Amanda Guyer, individuals were tested for positive or negative reactions using the Emotional Context Insensitivity (ECI) hypothesis. This hypothesis proposes that when you are depressed or emotionally overcome, you do not respond strongly to either positive or negative events. Regardless of the circumstances, you remain gloomy.

To test this theory, the researchers had undergraduate students take a survey to determine how depressed the individual claimed to be and then placed those individuals in set social situations that either accepted the student or rejected them. Students that ranked themselves as highly depressed or emotional overcome revealed they were less likely to feel a positive effect even when they were accepted.

This information helps illustrate a clouded judgment that can permanently reside on an individual due to their emotional state. Try to break free from clout thinking and give people a second chance regardless of your emotional mindset.

5. You'll become more compassionate

Your first impression is everything you have when it comes to meeting someone for the very first time. How many times have you stuttered, said something wrong or failed to portray the message you had prepared to offer when making a first impression? I know I have too many times to count. This regret of not living up to your potential can plague you ... but don't let it. Rather than being conceited and closed off, place yourself in the situation and offer the individual a second chance. Just because the first impression was under par does not mean you have seen the best they have to offer.

6. Go beyond your comfort zone and become a better person

Sometimes it is extremely difficult for people to accept and embrace others based on their personality because it is not similar to their own. Research on the psychology of stereotyping says it is blatantly obvious that human beings group and judge individuals based only on what the eye can see and not what the mind can get to know.

Breaking the social norm and going beyond the surface will allow individuals to get to know people from different social and ethnic backgrounds. Closing people off due to social bias creates riffs and misunderstandings. Providing people you would normally scoff of at first sight a second chance will help you go beyond your comfort zone and become a better person.

The post 6 ways second chances can make you happier appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
17 gestures a man in love will do https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/17-gestures-a-man-in-love-will-do/ Tue, 27 Sep 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/17-gestures-a-man-in-love-will-do/ Love can make men do some crazy things ...

The post 17 gestures a man in love will do appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

A man in a serious relationship is looking to love, adore and constantly bring a smile to his darling's face. His adoration drives him to establish a sense of security, love and fulfillment in his relationship.

When a man is completely in love he will perform certain gestures to remind his sweetheart there is nothing he wouldn't do for her.

Below are 17 gestures a man in love would perform:

1. He's your shoulder to cry on

A man in love can provide comfort unmatched by anyone else to the woman he is committed to. In times of physical and emotional distress he is your rock and confidant. There is nothing he wouldn't do or give to be the one person you rely on in times of need.

2. Holds you close

It doesn't matter what you are doing or where you are going all he wants to do is hold you close. Things do not feel right when you are not around each other. He loves to hug you and wrap his arms around you every chance he gets.

3. Whispers in your ear

Nothing makes you feel more special or adored than a hug from your love followed by a sweet compliment whispered in your ear. A kind word only shared between the two of you expresses more than just a compliment but a lot about his consideration.

4. Your pain becomes his pain

Your happiness means everything to him, so when you are facing pain and trials they quickly become his pain. A man in love will spend hours trying to figure out solutions to your problems.

5. He reminds you of things you'll likely forget

When important events and tasks need to get done, he is the first to remind you. He takes the time to remember the important aspects of your life and provides mental support in times of need.

6. He makes your needs a priority

If you are cold, he is wrapping his jacket around your shoulders immediately. If you love a certain song playing on the radio, he is turning it up immediately. If you do not like a certain restaurant, he immediately takes note to never take you there. He listens to the things that make you happy and the things that make you sad and establishes your needs as his priority.

7. He leaves sweet notes everywhere

A kind reminder that he loves you is proven through small notes left around your house, in your car, sweet text messages sent in the middle of the day, and long romantic voicemails left at night. He never ceases to let you know of his love.

8. He does the dishes

He is not afraid to get his hands dirty and help clean up. He is willing to put in the dirty work to win your intoxicating love.

9. He lets you listen to your favorite music

Despite hating your taste in music, he allows you to roll down the windows and blast your favorite songs all in good nature. His love for you is larger than a three-minute pop song.

10. His plans always include you

When a man in love makes plans, his friends and family can always assume he will be attending as a party of two. There is never a plan made that does not include you. His future and his plans always involve the woman he loves.

11. He kisses you on the forehead

It's the simple things that make your heart race; he knows that.

12. In a crowded room he constantly catches your eye

Despite being in a crowded setting, he is constantly trying to grab your attention. He may drop a subtle wink to let you know he is thinking about you, or he may offer a wave to let you know he wants you closer. Even in a sea of people his eyes will always search for you.

13. He compliments you everyday

Never a day goes by that he doesn't remind you how beautiful and smart you are. He takes the time to genuinely compliment you each and every day.

14. He uplifts you everyday

A man in love looks for ways to accentuate and compliment his love's physical accomplishments but her inspiring character as well. He takes the time to recognize her gifts and vocalizes all the strong and unique qualities that make her highly attractive.

15. He prays for you

A man in love will take the time to offer a sweet and heartfelt prayer to God asking for her protection and happiness. His faith in God will help guide him to protect and love you.

16. He remembers the small things

He knows you like three packets of sugar in your tea; he goes on afternoon walks just to hear about the best part of your day and remembers daisies are your favorite flowers when picking you a bouquet. He watches you and takes note on the small things that bring you the most joy and often tries to incorporate those small things into your daily life together.

17. He holds your hand

Whether you are driving in the car, shopping or going for a leisure walk, he constantly reaches over to grab your hand. Beyond what outside eyes can see, he caresses your fingers and creates an unspoken bond between the two of you.

Gestures that a man in love will do

How does your man show his love?

http://bit.ly/2es9nr7

Posted by I Love My Family (FamilyShare.com) on Wednesday, October 26, 2016

The post 17 gestures a man in love will do appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
5 pregnant women share their most tender moments with their husband https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/5-pregnant-women-share-their-most-tender-moments-with-their-husband/ Thu, 15 Sep 2016 06:35:01 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-pregnant-women-share-their-most-tender-moments-with-their-husband/ Sometimes, husbands are absolutely the BEST.

The post 5 pregnant women share their most tender moments with their husband appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

There are few moments in life as precious and tender as the moment a husband and wife discover they are expecting. Finding out a new member will be joining your family is a time you will never forget.

In a recent Reddit thread, pregnant women took to the forum to share their husbands', "So adorable, I'm dying!" moments.

The responses were incredible:

1. Constant reminder that "It's not that bad!"

2. Tender morning routines

3. Constantly checking in on his wife and baby

4. He already loves the little munchkin ... sigh

5. "I was the 'cup guy'"

Why does this happen?

Husbands undergo psychological changes during pregnancy as well. Psychologist Elizabeth Eden describes a man's heightened awareness of his impending fatherly role once his wife announces their expectancy. The imminent birth brings a flood of memories and emotions from his very own childhood. He reminisces on his own father and questions what kind of dad he will be, regardless of whether this is his first or third kid.

Pregnancy may also require the male to reconcile with the idea that he is giving up his role as son to become the father himself.

Fathers-to-be do not experience any physical changes but significantly rely on their partner's physical report. Eden describes a male's emotional and physical health to be dependent on their spouse's during pregnancy, with evidence that one out of ten men will have psychogenic physical symptoms due to the pregnancy.

Even though a husband does not get to experience the unique pregnancy experience, he is a loyal shotgun rider there to enjoy the ride with his beautiful wife. He is there to support and enjoy the open road of parenthood ahead.

The post 5 pregnant women share their most tender moments with their husband appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
5 ways you are raising a spoiled brat https://www.familytoday.com/family/5-ways-you-are-raising-a-spoiled-brat/ Wed, 14 Sep 2016 06:30:03 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-ways-you-are-raising-a-spoiled-brat/ Could it be your fault your child is a brat?

The post 5 ways you are raising a spoiled brat appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

Parenting is a lot like the weather. Some days are bright and sunny, others are gloomy and hard to face. Preparing and guiding families through ever-changing conditions comes with a load of pressure and constant scrutiny from strangers, friends and family.

People are quick to judge your involvement in your child's life as a form of helicopter parenting and your lack of involvement as a form of obvious neglect. It seems like no matter how hard you try at this parenting thing, there is always someone who will believe you are doing it wrong.

Although there are many things your child will do that are not your fault, some of their bratty behaviors may be your fault.

Below are seven ways you may be contributing to their brattiness. Are you guilty of any?

1. Excuse behavior as a way to express themselves

Have you ever uttered the phrase, "This is just what toddlers do," or "It is just a phase," under your breath? If you do, you could be in for a lot of trouble down the road. Author of the book, "Your Kid's a Brat and It's All Your Fault," Elaine Rose Glickman, warns parents about allowing young children to slide under the radar of punishment without any consequences. She said, "If there's no way of holding them accountable for their behavior, then at that young age, you're turning your child, unfortunately, into a brat."

2. Growing up is not an option

Parents love to hold on and embrace the youthfulness of their children. Unwillingness to let your little ones grow up can produce kids who are not responsibile or self-reliant and can stunt their ability to mature. Letting your children understand they cannot always get what they want, when they want it, will help them become responsible for their actions.

3. Never let them take the blame

Your child will always be close to perfect in your eyes, so it is easy to blame their poor behavior on reasons other than their own choices and freewill. Children today are exposed to multiple television shows, memes, YouTube videos and tweets that encourage disrespect towards adults. Even when you are not the one who taught your child the poor behavior, it is still your responsibility to reprimand them.

4. Always at your kids' service

Several parents believe a good mom or dad has to be at their child's beck and call 24/7. That is a false and tainted expectation that fosters the development of entitled children. Instead of raising kids that expect you to praise and fawn over them incessantly, raise them to be contributing members of society that find joy in serving others. They will come to recognize your service to them is a form of unconditional love.

5. Ignore entitlement

Saying "no" to your kid is never fun or easy. If you struggle to set boundaries with your children and fold every time they ask for something, you are raising them to be accustomed to the word "yes." Despite whining, temper tantrums and raised voices, parents must avoid giving into the demands of their child. Disappointment can provide them with the opportunity to learn and grow from critical life lessons.

The post 5 ways you are raising a spoiled brat appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
This celebrity’s advice to women about jealousy might shock you https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/this-celebritys-advice-to-women-about-jealousy-might-shock-you/ Tue, 13 Sep 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/this-celebritys-advice-to-women-about-jealousy-might-shock-you/ What does jealousy do to you? Does it overcome you or make you stronger?

The post This celebrity’s advice to women about jealousy might shock you appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

Stand-up comedian Chelsea Handler shared an experience that taught her the powerful effects of jealousy. Her advice about facing this powerful emotion is a message all women need to hear.

Early on in her career, Handler was invited to a comedic improv showcase. There, she would perform for a prospective agency to represent her. The opportunity was everything a start-up comedian could ever dream of. Her excitement for the opportunity led her to invite her fellow comedian and friend to join her at the showcase because for a comedian, the more experience you can get, the better.

Having five years of experience under her belt with her friend having only one, Handler felt confident and prepared to take the stage and impress the agents.

After both of their performances, Handler received a phone call from her friend the next day. Her friend told her the big news: She was contracted by the comedic agency just hours after the showcase.

"I hated the way that I felt, that I was jealous," said Handler. "How could she get something that I didn't? It wasn't fair because I was the one who had convinced her to do stand-up in the first place."

Her jealousy was ignited, but her perspective remained calm and steady after a phone call with her sister, helping Handler to make this event a learning experience.

"You just can't ever act on jealousy," her sister told her. "What you have no one else has. So there will be a place for you. Don't think that because someone got something, that you're not going to get something else. There's room for everybody."

Handler shared this experience in the video above as an outreach to other women. Her story serves as a reminder that it is OK to feel jealous so long as you do not act out on that feeling.

She reminds everyone, "There's always a space for you because there is no one that's exactly like you."

Handler then ends the video with a line I think we can all benefit from: "I never ever blow out someone else's candle to make mine brighter."

The post This celebrity’s advice to women about jealousy might shock you appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
How to make the decision to put your dog down https://www.familytoday.com/family/how-to-make-the-decision-to-put-your-dog-down/ Mon, 12 Sep 2016 06:30:01 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/how-to-make-the-decision-to-put-your-dog-down/ Recognizing health signs in your pup can help you understand if it is the right time to put them down.

The post How to make the decision to put your dog down appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

The harsh reality of owning a pet is knowing they will likely not outlive you, and the even more sobering truth rests on the decision that you may have to make to end their precious life. You have raised the sweet pup and taken care of it like your own family, why do you have to decide when it is the best time for them to go?

There are multiple cases where a dog will pass calmly on their own, but in several cases a dog cannot perceive long-term happiness or how they will feel in a few hours. A dog is incapable to live beyond what they feel in the moment, and that hindrance makes it nearly impossible for them to recognize if they will or will not get better. Their lack of understanding ultimately leaves their owners with the burden of deciding their fate.

An owner can recognize signs of aging and symptoms of terminal illness to be a normal part of life, but accepting their repercussions is not so easy to accept. They may not have the power to take away their dog's illness, but there are certain steps and precautions owners can take to help alleviate pain for their pup in their short time left on earth.

Arguably the decision to euthanize a furry family member may remain as one of the hardest decisions an individual has to face but sometimes it is the only humane option they have left.

Never easy

One may believe putting a dog down to be the hardest thing a veterinarian has to do, but veterinarian Dr. Andy Roark disagrees. Roark shared his first experience of having the life-or-death conversation with a pet owner. He described the enormous amount of heartache he endured watching the pet owner receive the heavy news that death was the best option to be harder to witness than the actual euthanizing process.

The question of life and death has long been a hot topic of debate. Is it moral and humane to put a dog down even if it has the will to live? The answer remains tentative and holistically dependent on each dog's unique situation.

Analyze the situation

How can an owner know it is time to make the bigdecision? Dr. Roark suggests owners do these three things: analyze their pet's current state, remember a pet lives in the moment and advises owners to honestly rate their pet's quality of life.

Unique situation:

There is not one sign or one recommendation that fully encompasses each pet and their unique health situation. Advise with your veterinarian and inform yourself on the specific medical symptoms of your dog's condition so you can be prepared to make life-altering decisions when necessary. You may also want to consider designating a trusted friend to help you decide when it is your pet's time to go. Having an outsider looking in on the situation will help alleviate your emotional attachment and bias.

Pets live in the moment:

Have you ever noticed your pet experiences overwhelming amounts of joy each time you come home? It doesn't matter if you have been in and out of your home 10 times that day; they still greet you with that toothy grin you can't resist. Dogs are creatures that live in the moment, when pets suffer they do not remember all of the joy they have experienced in previous days and they do not think the current pain they are feeling will last forever.

Quality of life:

As hard as the question may be, sincerely ponder the quality of life your pet is experiencing. Is the future bright or is the condition going to get worse?

Questions to ask yourself

One of the best things a concerned pet owner can do is ask themselves the following questions suggested by the American Veterinary Medical Association regarding euthanasia:

  • Why am I considering euthanizing my pet?

  • Do I have any fears or unsettled feelings regarding putting my dog down?

  • Are you worried what others might think of you?

  • Are you putting your self-interest over the well-being of your pet?

  • Are you ready to let go?

Is your pup experiencing joy or dragging?

One easy way to determine whether your pup is still experiencing some joy in their daily life is by establishing the rule of "Five Good Things." This exercise encourages individuals to pick the top five things your dog loves to do and write them down. Watch your dog for the next few weeks and notice if they still participate and enjoy their favorite activities. If they do not engage at all, it may be time to analyze their perpetual quality of life.

Regardless of the medical condition, making the decision to say that final goodbye takes immense strength and faith.

The post How to make the decision to put your dog down appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
It’s scientifically proven – marriage could save your life https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/its-scientifically-proven-marriage-could-save-your-life/ Fri, 09 Sep 2016 15:07:17 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/its-scientifically-proven-marriage-could-save-your-life/ Looking to live longer? Science suggests getting married.

The post It’s scientifically proven – marriage could save your life appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

Marriage might save your life.

It has been scientifically proven committed couples live longer and healthier lives.

According to a recent study published in the "American Journal of Epidemiology,"married individuals experience higher levels of physical health, psychological well-being and emotional stability. Over all, they are healthier people because of their union.

Not convinced? Below are five scientifically proven ways marriage saves your life.

Marriage decreases the risk of cancer

Marriage has been linked to improve the survival rate from bladder cancer. In a recent study, researchers gathered 202 patients, some married and others not, who were undergoing a cystectomy for bladder cancer.

In the sample gathered, 74 percent were married and displayed an improvement in pre-operative laboratory variables, stayed in the hospital for less amounts of time and portrayed significant improvement in pathological outcomes.

Marriage means less risk-taking

Would you believe me if I told you more wedding rings could mean less handcuffs?

Getting married is seen as "settling down" for a reason. Recent research shows mellowed-out men had fewer signs of risk-taking behaviors because they were married.

Marriage provides higher levels of physical and psychological health

Married couples experience something called the protective effect. Research notesthat a sense of protection and being well cared for encourages couples to engage in healthy lifestyle habits.

Married couples have long been noted to smoke and drink less, encourage each other to participate in a healthy diet and balanced work out regime and provide unmatched emotional support.

Marriage gives way to higher incomes

Looking for more dough? Get married.

In multiple cross-sectional income and wage determination studies, findings show married men have higher incomes than single men. This correlation is due to the "wives effect." A man supported by a wife - who improves household decision-making process, motivates her husband to work hard and provides emotional support - will consequently be perceived as a stable and responsible employee, one to promote and work with long-term.

Marriage protects hearts ... literally

Patients undergoing heart bypass surgery who are married are twice as likely as unmarried patients to be alive after 15 years.

Researchers from the University of Rochester found marital satisfaction played a significant role in long-term survival after the major surgery.

"A nurturing marriage provides patients with sustained motivation to care for themselves and gives them a significant reason to 'stick around so they can stay in the relationship that they like,'" said Kathleen King, PhD, RN, FAAN and professor emeritus from the University of Rochester's School of Nursing.

Although marriage is a strong and powerful tool for an individual's health, it remains a mixed bag. A poor relationship with your spouse can be lethal to your physical and emotional well-being just as much as a strong and fortifying marriage can be life-saving to your physical and emotional health.

The post It’s scientifically proven – marriage could save your life appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
Why does God let me feel worthless? https://www.familytoday.com/family/why-does-god-let-me-feel-worthless/ Fri, 09 Sep 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/why-does-god-let-me-feel-worthless/ These 3 truths will remind you why God allows you to feel sorrow and little self-worth.

The post Why does God let me feel worthless? appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
Everyone is a failure of some sorts. Despite our best efforts and genuine intentions we will all fall short of perfection every single time we try. Sounds disheartening, right? Why try when you know you are always going to fall short?

The simple truth is you must try so you can know the feeling of failing at epic proportions. You have to experience rock bottom to build a stable and strong foundation for your future. You must know failure to know success.

In today's world, social media has painted rose-colored glasses on everyone's lives, showing only the snapshots that look perfect. The mistakes, dark and twisted life experiences are kept out of sight and out of mind. Why? We like to feel appreciated and successful all the time. No one likes to be perceived as a failure and of little worth.

Would you believe me if I told you Walt Disney, one of the primary creators of magic and happiness, was fired by a newspaper editor for his lack of imagination? Or Michael Jordan? The often called greatest basketball player of all time was cut from his very own high school basketball team.

Despite confidence shattering setbacks these two men decided to learn from their rejection instead of allowing it to consume them. Both men set out to become the very best at what they did. Now, both have a world-renowned reputation to show for their triumph over failure.

When the odds are stacked against you and the trials you face seem too treacherous to overcome, remember your creator. Remember God is there for you with his infinite and abounding sense of care and love.

God has a plan for you and your life. He knows where you ultimately want to go and will set specific trials and emotions in your path to help you get there in the long run. Remind yourself to rely on the simple prayer, "not my will, but yours be done".

During the times you feel of little worth and of little value, remember these three important truths:

You have infinite worth

A perfect master created you and nothing God makes is of little or no worth. God did not make you to be a flawed human being; he constructed you with talents, quirks and a personality fit to help you become the best you can be. You are hand-made, custom-built, unique and loved by God. You are never worthless.

Develop and share your gifts

You were sent to earth from God to develop and share unique gifts with those around you. Working on your talents will not only edify you as an individual, but will help you to appreciate the people in your life. You have something to offer that no one else does. You are more special than you will ever realize.

You were never meant to walk through life alone

Be honest with yourself. If you are struggling to feel whole, reach out to loved ones and trusted friends. Seek support from God. Remember, he is walking by your side through times of joy and tribulation. You are never alone, even when you feel like no one is there.

The post Why does God let me feel worthless? appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>
Science says it is impossible for men and women to be just friends https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/science-says-it-is-impossible-for-men-and-women-to-be-just-friends/ Fri, 09 Sep 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/science-says-it-is-impossible-for-men-and-women-to-be-just-friends/ Recent studies have answers to this life-long question.

The post Science says it is impossible for men and women to be just friends appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>

It is one of the oldest questions in the book: can men and women really be just friends?

You would think we have a definitive answer to this question, but the reality lies in the fact that this question is still fairly new to our society. Confused? I'll explain.

For most of human history, men and women lived in socially constrictive bubbles that had very little overlap between the two genders. Men were raised to run around with other boys and then grow up to perform heavy labor with their fellow men to earn a living for their wife and kids. Women on the other hard were raised to be young ladies set to cook, clean and nurture young children. They were raised to live separate lives and to fulfill their traditional gender roles- even after marriage their social lives remained fairly distinct.

It wasn't until the late 19th century and early 20th century that men and women began to experience social events and activities together. As more and more women began to fight for equal rights, attend universities and entered the work force, cross-sex interactions began to enter unchartered waters and increase immensely.

With cross-sex relationships (friendly and romantic) becoming more present in the past 100 years alone, we are still trying to figure this whole, "He's just a friend," phenomenon.

What research tells us

Maybe science can help uncover this peculiar question. In one study, researchers at the University of Wisconsin invited 88 pairs of cross-sex friends to answer a set of questions regarding their romantic intentions. The pairs promised to never share their answers beyond the walls of the lab. The couple was then separated for further analysis.

Researchers then took the opportunity to ask the men and women separately questions primarily set to gauge the individual's romantic feelings towards their friend of the opposite sex. Research found women were generally not attracted to their male counterpart and strictly saw their connection as that of a close friend. The men had strong and clear romantic feelings for their female counterparts.

Not only did the men have stronger romantic feelings for their female friends, they often mistook their female counterpart's friendliness as a sign of reciprocal romantic interest.

This study thus concludes: women do believe men and women can be just friends while men secretly hope and believe they have a chance of turning their relationship into just a little bit more someday.

So what?

So... can men and women really be just friends? The answer remains: it depends.

The scientific evidence in this study proves the friend zone truly does exist. Women and men still remain on different frequencies when it comes to cross-sex relationships.

Women interpret a man's signals for a romantic relationship as a sign he wants to create a genuine friendship with them, while a man reads a woman's signals of friendliness and consideration to be a romantic gesture.

While these types of relationships are tentative and subjective to each relationship, the study concludes that as the relationship progresses, overall satisfaction decreases between the individuals. One person experiences a lack of fulfillment in just being friends over time.

Relationships between men and women will remain complicated, but the caveats and complications are what make this topic of conversation so interesting and a topic that will not be going away any time soon.

The post Science says it is impossible for men and women to be just friends appeared first on FamilyToday.

]]>