CAN THIS MARRIAGE BE SAVED?
Ladies Home Journal On-Line
NAT'S TURN, Part Two:
“You know, when we married, it was a different era. We were both the eldest in a large Catholic family, so having lots of kids was no big deal. But Joan and I are opposites. I’m very outspoken and outgoing. I say what I think and don’t like to hold things in. Joan is quiet and keeps her feelings under wraps. She’s always positive, never says anything bad about anybody. I think I’m realistic. She thinks I’m negative.
The problem is, I can’t talk to the one person it’s important for me to talk to. If I get the slightest bit agitated, she clams up. I believe that if you have a problem, you should discuss it. She won’t, and never has.
DR. PAUL MOSCHETTA:
From Nat’s point of view, Joan is being incredibly selfish--and in one way he's right. She’s taking care of Nat’s custodial needs--raising his children and tending the home--but ignoring the emotional ones. He’s angry--and rightly so--when she constantly puts the needs of the kids before his. Of course, the way he handles his anger, expresses his feelings--coupled with his low tolerance for frustration--are defeating his cause. No one can, or should be forced to, deal with a person this angry. Nat is confusing verbal bullying with being verbally abusive.
Joan's Turn, Part Two
Joan's Turn, Part Three
Joan's Turn, Part Four
Joan's Turn, Part Five
Joan's Turn, Part Six
Joan's Turn, Part Seven
Nat's Turn, Part One
Nat's Turn, Part Two
Nat's Turn, Part Three
Drs. Moschetta's Comments
