Apple News Today Rebroadcast: Should you cut ties with a family member? A therapist offers advice.
6 snips
Nov 28, 2025 In this engaging discussion, psychologist Joshua Coleman, an expert on family estrangement, dives deep into the complex dynamics of strained family relationships. He challenges common therapy advice, pointing out its limitations for estranged families. Coleman shares the top causes of estrangement, including divorce and political conflicts, and offers pragmatic strategies for navigating these issues during family gatherings. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and empathy in reconciliation, while also addressing the cultural factors that complicate estrangement.
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Therapist's Personal Estrangement Story
- Joshua Coleman described being estranged from his daughter after remarrying and having twins.
- He eventually reconciled by becoming more empathic and taking responsibility for her feelings.
Divorce Drives Many Estrangements
- Divorce is the most common pathway to estrangement in Coleman’s research.
- It introduces new alliances, competition for resources, and potential parental poisoning of the child against the other parent.
Political Rift From 2016 To January 6
- Kevin described feeling betrayed when his religious community and family backed Trump after 2016.
- He said January 6 and proposed policies pushed him to see a line he could not cross without explanation.
