New Books in Psychology Jeanne Safer, "I Love You, but I Hate Your Politics: How to Protect Your Intimate Relationships in a Poisonous Partisan World" (Bitback, 2019)
Jan 11, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Jeanne Safer, a psychotherapist with over 45 years of experience, shares insights from her book exploring the complexities of love in a politically charged world. She reflects on her own marriage to a conservative, offering strategies to navigate political disagreements with humor and respect. Safer emphasizes the importance of acceptance and open communication, highlighting how to maintain personal connections despite deep ideological divides. She also addresses the influence of media on polarization and shares tips for civil discourse.
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A 40-Year Political Divide
- Jeanne Safer discusses the genesis of her book, stemming from her 40-year marriage to a conservative husband.
- Their differing political views required her to learn how to prioritize love over political differences.
The Futility of Changing Minds
- Jeanne Safer realized she couldn't change her husband's mind, leading to the core advice of the book.
- She suggests avoiding political discussions to preserve relationships.
The Bumper Sticker Test
- A man sought Jeanne Safer's advice after his Trump bumper sticker offended his girlfriend.
- He removed the sticker, demonstrating his love and respect for her feelings.
