SELF-HELP

Stronger Than You Think: The 10 Blind Spots That Undermine Your Relationship…and How To See Past Them

by Gary W., Jr Lewandowski

Little, Brown Spark. Feb. 2021. 304p. ISBN 9780316454711. $28. SELF-HELP

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Lewandowski (psychology, Monmouth Univ., NJ; The Science of Relationships) translates and distills academic research to help people look at their romantic relationships and sidestep blind spots. He writes that most relationships, except abusive ones, are healthier than we might think. He says that infrequent sex does not automatically indicate a bad relationship; conflict done well is a better indicator of relational health than “we never fight”; and that some selfishness is good for a relationship. For each blind spot, he provides science-based tips to practice. These are ultimately generalizations that will probably work for most, but not all. Still, this book gives couples excellent research-backed starting points to identify core needs and begin to discuss relational health with each other.

VERDICT An excellent choice for readers who are in a romantic relationship or are preparing for one.

Reviewed by Jennifer M. Schlau, Elgin Community Coll., IL , Mar 01, 2021

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