Dealing with a difficult relationship? Here’s how psychology says you can shift the dynamic

A bit of understanding – plus effort to regulate yourself and give compassionate feedback – can shift a stuck relationship into something more bearable, perhaps even meaningful.

By: Jessica A. Stern, Pomona College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 23, 2026

Words: 1,144

Last Updated: 1 month, 3 weeks ago

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By Jessica A. Stern, Pomona College

Relationships can feel like both a blessing and the bane of your existence, a source of joy and a source of frustration or resentment. At some point, each of us is faced with a clingy child, a dramatic friend, a partner who recoils at the first hint of intimacy, a volatile parent or a controlling boss — in short, a difficult relationship.

As a psychology professor and relationship scientist, …

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