How to Keep the Peace in a Politically-Mixed Household

Dr. Jeanne Safer has been a psychotherapist in NYC for 44 years. She’s the author of six books on “taboo topics” that people think about but nobody talks about (e.g. choosing not to be a parent, problem siblings, positive effects of parent’s death, forgiveness not always necessary, and the many varieties of love).

She’s also a veteran of a politically-mixed marriage: she’s a liberal democrat married to a conservative republican who also happens to be the Senior Editor of the leading journal of conservative opinion, National Review. They’ve learned to deal with their gigantic political differences (abortion, gun control, assisted suicide, etc.) because they agree about almost everything else, which is more important.

Her newest book, I Love You, but I HATE Your Politics, based on 50 interviews and her own life story, will be published by St. Martin's Press in Spring 2019. Mighty Mommy welcomes author Dr. Jeanne Safer, host of the new podcast I Love You, but I HATE Your Politics, to discuss resolution-making and reconciling differences for the sake of fostering love and keeping a family together. Some of the questions Dr. Safer will answer are:

• What are some ways to keep the peace when difficult and “hot button” topics such as politics and religion enter into relationships?
• How can you amicably agree to disagree?
• Should you create “safe” zones in your home or in your conversations? How can we do that?
• How can you set aside your political differences and still embrace the person as a loving human being?
• In this complex world of families being overwhelmed with commitments and working several jobs to make ends meet, what can you share to help families stay grounded and connected?
• How can family members, co-workers, and spouses handle “know it alls”?
• How can we teach our kids that it’s OK to have dramatically different views in life but we can still live in peace with our spouse, parents, and siblings?
• What’s the most important dynamic that families at odds can bring to the table when trying to fix a contentious situation?
• What are some of the benefits of a politically-mixed marriage?

 How have you handled contentious “hot button” topics in your family? Share your thoughts in the comment section at quickanddirtytips.com/mighty-mommyor post your ideas on the Mighty Mommy Facebook page. You can also connect with me on Twitter @MightyMommy or email me at mommy@quickanddirtytips.com.  Visit my family-friendly boards at Pinterest.com/MightyMommyQDT. Image of fighting parents © Shutterstock.