Customer Reviews

Ten Stupid Things Couples Do to Mess Up Their Relationships

5 star:		(32)
4 star:		(16)
3 star:		(7)
2 star:		(7)
1 star:		(7)

 

 

You know, I don't agree with about half the things Dr. Laura Schlessinger says on the radio or in any of her books. I think she's far too conservative in general, and downright repressive about religion and sexuality. Yet I keep coming back for more.

Why? Because this lady has her head screwed on right. She's figured out one way to help people lead more fulfulling and committed lives, and she's not afraid to advertise it, knowing full well that she's going to get slammed for it. You've got to admire guts like that, and you really should take her ideas into consideration. There's something to be said for "traditional morality" (which encompasses things that are not necessarily moral issues at all), and its ability to make the world run more smoothly and people turn out better.

Listen to Dr. Laura about the importance of true committment to your mate, about taking reponsibility for yourself, about raising your children with love and discipline. Remember that her politics do not have to agree with yours and her religious views may conflict, but this does not diminish the importance of her message. You can ignore all the moralizing fluff, but what Dr. Laura is really about is devotion to family, and responsibility in relationships of all kinds. THAT is something everyone can use a lesson in.

Okay, I'll admit upfront that I'm a gay woman and listen to Dr. Laura's show on the radio. I agree with some of what she says, and disagree with a whole lot, but knew that I would learn something from this book. Despite my disagreements with her politically, she's always been right on with issues about relationships, and this book really nails some of the more serious issues every couple faces, including gay couples. The issues she confronts are really universal--"Stupid Secrets," "Stupid Pettiness," "Stupid Power," etc., and really helped to shed light on the issues I'm facing in my relationship. One of the great things about Dr. Laura's style is that she puts her opinions right up in front and you can take it or leave it. I found I'm taking most of her advice from this book. I highly recommend it even if your relationship is going really well right now. You'll need to have this information if (when!) things get tough further down the road. Be prepared!

I don't agree with everything she says, but I have always learned something of value to me. So I began reading Dr. Laura's "How Could You Do That?" She re-enforced moral issues for me and started me re-evaluating several other issues. Having gotten good information from that book, I went on to read, "10 Stupid Things Women Do..." Low and behold my dating/relationship issues cleared up and I'm now on the path to marriage with a wonderful guy.

So thinking I've resolved everything, I questioned what she new things she could tell me. Began skimming the book in a bookstore. Several chapters later, I realized I still have much to learn and she has a lot to teach. We get so caught up in ourselves, we stop thinking about the whole picture. A relationship is a group effort, made up of individuals, but it is a group. And it is bigger than it's parts. So when I get caught up in Pettiness (my perfectionism), Power Struggles (okay, yeah, I like to control situations), and Stupid Priorities (yes, I can say, "No." now) and look back on those chapters and get my head straight. I've already begun recommending it to my friends whenever they say..."I can't believe he/she just doesn't get it about X issue..." FOR THEM, not the person they're talking about!

I just finished reading this book, and it is absolutely wonderful. I have worked doing pre-marital and marital counseling and she sums up the biggest mistakes that couple make in their relationships. Every problem I have encountered in dealing with couples, I have seen in the book, either in general or specifically. This book is so good, I am going to have it as "required" reading for all my pre-marital classes!

The book presents a compelling and eye-opening viewpoint and provides a good basis for couples who want to build better skills at relating by re-examining their behaviors. While reading, I did recognize behaviors in myself that I have also engaged in but was previously not aware of.

It is clear that Dr. Laura has strong beliefs and is passionately committed to her ideas and to her viewpoints. The information is presented in a straightforward manner and is often on target. Though Dr. Laura's style of communication is strong, the message and content is ultimately geared to help readers recognize their behaviors and to prevent broken relationships.

I have also read another book on relationships that I found to be extremely enjoyable and helpful as well. The book is "Working On Your Relationships Doesn't Work" by Ariel and Shya Kane. This book explores a new technique geared toward mending relationships and building ones that are nurturing and fulfilling. This book uses examples from many of the Kanes' clients and associates, from their workshops and seminars, as well as from their own personal life journey. By bringing awareness to our ingrained patterns of behavior, they guide readers to discover satisfaction and increased productivity in their lives and relationships, without having to "work" on their
problems...as well as how to have a lot of fun along the way (that "fun" part is right up my alley!)

As a psychotherapist, I often struggle with thinking of books to "prescribe" to my patients. I have advised many of my patients read Laura's 10 Stupid Things books. This is one I've been waiting for ever since she started talking about it a year ago. Dr. Laura is famous for not mincing words or caretaking feelings when delivering her message. This book is no exception. At times, the constant "letters from listeners" can be a bit tiresome, but she manages to tie in her viewpoint with her signature wit, wisdom, and "equal opportunity bashing." Will this replace the work I do with couples and families? No, of course it won't. But, it does aid very well. Thanks, Laura, for another great book!

Right on target... really helps to align your priorities on what matters most.... if you choose a relationship, then make it work.. if you choose to have kids, make the time. Very good, assigns equal blame to both parties.

Dr. Laura pulls everybody's covers in this very useful book that maps a straight path through the minefields of contemporary relationships. It's like a book about brick-laying for brick layers! Insightful, specific and to the point, the book shines a bright light on all our little games--from power trips to pettiness to screwed up priorities Before you let Mr. or Ms. Right slip away from you, get this book and make sure you're not doing the dumbest thing in your life. Married couples,too, can learn how to identify and work through common problems in a long-term relationship and save the laywer's fees!! This book comes at just the right time when all of us are more conscious than ever of how precious our loved ones are and how deeply we treasure our families...This book will help us make the most of the important relationships in our lives.

I think this is a wonderful book, written by a fantastic author, published at a perfect time when there is so much unrest in the country. If couples would read this book together I think they would have a much happier, healthier relationship.

Dr. Laura is a great author and host because she doesnt play the "politically correct" game. If you are looking for a book that will tell you that there are many paths to happiness this aint it. And if you want someone to tell you that you just have to be positive and assert yourself, Dr. Laura wont do it.

Having a great relationship takes sacrifices -- biting your tongue, not gazing at others, cutting back on your personal persuits. But in the end, the rewards come out in spades.

I'd also recommend an excellent book I just finished - The Romantic's Guide by Michael Webb. It has the most creative and interesting tips and ideas on keeping romance in your relationship. You'll love it.