Control struggles between partners are often the ruin of a couple. But what is a battle for “control” in the context of a relationship? When I introduce this concept in couple’s therapy, there is ...

We tend to associate the word “abuse” with more extreme behaviors and actions. However, abuse occurs on a continuum and can take on different forms and morph and/or escalate over the course of the ...

A recent study published in Sex Roles suggests that the general public often underestimates the dangers of controlling relationship behaviors when the victims are men. The research provides evidence ...

Why do people misidentify control as love? Here are three ways to answer that question. Not everything that looks like love to begin with actually turns out to be true. Sometimes, what feels intense ...

In relationships, control varies from mild to abusive to coercive control. When it’s mild, it can be helpful or annoying. When it’s abusive or coercive, it can be damaging. Control varies in pattern, ...

The most dangerous relationship problems often begin with behaviors so subtle they’re easy to dismiss. Emotional manipulation—a form of control that leaves you questioning your own feelings and ...

In April 2026, Dr. Cerina Wanzer Fairfax was shot and killed by her husband while their divorce was pending. She had done what she was supposed to do. She had initiated the legal process to leave ...

Therapists explain how narcissistic traits can affect relationships, workplaces, families, and emotional wellbeing, and how to establish healthier boundaries.

CLEVELAND, Oh - Dear Ask Yadi: My partner refuses to let me touch their phone, tablet, or even the TV remote when they’re around. When we’re together, they want complete control of the remote. If I ...