I contributed to the following article found on CheatSheet.com:
Asking Why?
One of the worst thing to say to someone getting divorced is asking ‘why?’ This is bad because you can’t possibly get the complete answer. Not to mention, it puts the person on the spot. Be mindful of the fact that the divorce is happening because two people contributed to its demise and chances are they will both be blaming each other. It is often difficult for people to acknowledge their own piece in what has happened. It would be better to show empathy for the situation. Focus on the feeling you pick up on. Does the person divorcing seem sad, happy, confused, devastated? Show care and concern as he or she is experiencing a major life event. Maybe just asking, ‘are you okay?’ or ‘how are you doing?’ is the best thing to say. Then, be there to really listen to the answer. It’s worse to not say anything at all. It’s like knowing someone close to the person died and just ignoring that fact. In that situation, it’s hard to know exactly what to say, but saying nothing could come off as insensitive. Marni Feuerman, psychotherapist, marriage content expert for about.com, and a divorce blogger for Huffington Post
MEDIA CONSULTING
I’m Marni Feuerman, a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice in Boca Raton, Florida. I offer individual counseling for adults on a wide range of relationship issues and struggles, and I offer couples and marriage counseling. In addition to my psychotherapy practice, I am also a freelance writer and a frequently quoted expert in the media on topics about relationships. I have been invited to do video projects (both as a contributor and script writer), radio interviews and podcasts as well. View more of my media sampling, and my articles on my personal “The Talking Solution Blog.” You may contact me for interviews, writing and speaking engagements.
