The Dr. John Delony Show

Could This Secret End My Marriage Before It Starts?

22 snips
Dec 5, 2025
A young man grapples with the guilt of a past addiction, weighing whether to disclose it to his fiancée. Another man faces the challenge of his wife's newfound identity and questions the status of their marriage. Meanwhile, a caller is shocked to learn of a friend's secret involvement in an abortion, prompting discussions about trust and boundaries. The host emphasizes the importance of honesty, identity exploration, and maintaining strong friendships, offering practical advice for navigating these complex emotions.
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INSIGHT

Shame vs. Guilt: Different Signals

  • Shame says I am a bad thing while guilt says I did a bad thing.
  • John Delony explains guilt is useful and motivates corrective action, while shame attacks identity.
ADVICE

Tell Your Partner And Ask For Reassurance

  • Be transparent with your partner about your past and the programming that drives you.
  • Ask for simple, physical reassurance when old nervous-system fears resurface during marriage.
ADVICE

Find Mentors And Back Identity With Action

  • Seek mentors and relationships that model the love and stability you missed from your parents.
  • Do the internal work to change identity and back it with actions like study, health, and trustworthy friendships.
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