Family

The Pain That Is Unlike All Other Pain

Why does society treat labor pain with such reverence—and its relief with such scrutiny?

To Get Out of Your Head, Get Out of Your House

Spending time in nature can help relieve stress and anxiety.

How to Embrace Doing Nothing

Absolute idleness is both harder and more rewarding than it seems.

The Downsides of Having an Athlete in the Family

Many parents sacrifice money and time to support a child's athletic dreams, to the detriment of the household.

The Myth of Independent American Families

In Nordic countries, people rely on the state. In the U.S., they rely on their communities.

How to Be Happy in a Recession

A financial downturn doesn’t have to cause an emotional one.

Why Must We Work So Hard Before Vacation?

The period before time off can be so intense that people need, well, a vacation to recover from it.

America’s Child-Care Equilibrium Has Shattered

Although care is expensive for parents—often obscenely so—providers are paid a pittance. And now there isn’t even enough expensive child care to go around.

A Happiness Columnist’s Three Biggest Happiness Rules

A good life isn’t just about getting the details right. Here are some truths that transcend circumstance and time.

The War in Ukraine Is Dividing Lifelong Friends

After Russia’s invasion, many post-Soviet immigrants in the U.S. are estranged from or barely speaking with longtime friends back home.

The Case for Dating a Friend

The warmth and care of an existing friendship is a great foundation for a romantic relationship—even if it feels scary to take the leap.

The Trouble With Zooming Forever

Videochatting may be convenient, but it will never make us as happy as real human interaction.

In Praise of Pointless Goals

These achievements aren’t about productive self-improvement. They’re designed to make the pursuit of joy a deliberate practice.

Cities Aren’t Built for Kids

But they could be.

The Magic of a Little Danger

To get happier, be brave, not reckless.

A Simple Fix for a Better Marriage Proposal

One partner—any partner—proposes. Later, the other one does too.

The Coming Rise of Abortion as a Crime

In places where abortion is now illegal, a range of pregnancy losses could be subject to state scrutiny.

Don’t Surround Yourself With Admirers

Instead, befriend people who inspire awe in you.

The New First Date

Before committing the energy to a night out, some people are screening their suitors over video.

Lessons From 40 Men in Egalitarian Relationships

In many households, men think like helpers and women think like managers. A gender expert’s new book suggests ways for couples to escape that dynamic.