The Most Tortured Relationship in America
Monogamy is one of the last bipartisan ideals—even if people struggle to live up to it.
Family
In Praise of ‘Difficult’ Kids
Feisty children can be exhausting. They also possess a moral fire that deserves cultivating.
The Endless Goodbye
More than a decade before my dad died, I lost him to dementia.
Everyone Thinks They Need a NeeDoh
But no one can find one.
America’s Child-Care Equilibrium Has Shattered
Although care is expensive for parents—often obscenely so—providers are paid a pittance. And now there isn’t even enough expensive child care to go around.
A Happiness Columnist’s Three Biggest Happiness Rules
A good life isn’t just about getting the details right. Here are some truths that transcend circumstance and time.
The War in Ukraine Is Dividing Lifelong Friends
After Russia’s invasion, many post-Soviet immigrants in the U.S. are estranged from or barely speaking with longtime friends back home.
The Case for Dating a Friend
The warmth and care of an existing friendship is a great foundation for a romantic relationship—even if it feels scary to take the leap.
The Trouble With Zooming Forever
Videochatting may be convenient, but it will never make us as happy as real human interaction.
In Praise of Pointless Goals
These achievements aren’t about productive self-improvement. They’re designed to make the pursuit of joy a deliberate practice.
Cities Aren’t Built for Kids
But they could be.
The Magic of a Little Danger
To get happier, be brave, not reckless.
A Simple Fix for a Better Marriage Proposal
One partner—any partner—proposes. Later, the other one does too.
The Coming Rise of Abortion as a Crime
In places where abortion is now illegal, a range of pregnancy losses could be subject to state scrutiny.