The award-winning author helps you build relational literacy by giving you the principles and tools to understand and practice healthy ways of relating.
Relationships are complicated. Yet it's an unfortunate reality that while most of us have to learn complex geometry that we'll probably never use, we don't get a single formal lesson in how to relate to others. In this comprehensive guidebook, Joy reveals the common psychological dynamics that underlie all kinds of relationships: with a romantic partner, friends, family members, colleagues—in short, with anyone in any situation. Understanding these dynamics can enable you to make all your relationships healthier and more resilient, and help you contribute to creating a better world.
Drawing on the most relevant research as well as on her own extensive experience as a psychologist, Joy explains how to strengthen your "relational immune system" to resist not only interpersonal stressors but also largely invisible yet potentially devastating societal stressors like racism and sexism. With this understanding, you can cultivate relationships that consistently reflect core moral values and honor the dignity of everyone involved. Resilient relationships are a source of joy and fulfillment for those who are in them—and they also support the thriving of the organizations and communities of which we all are a part.
"A wise, practical, and well-researched template for creating healthy relationships of any kind . . . I recommend this book to anyone wishing to expand their social-emotional intelligence!" —Susan Campbell, PhD, author of Five-Minute Relationship Repair
Industry Reviews
“The research is in. Nothing is more important than Getting Relationships Right because healthy relationships are a necessity—not a luxury—for happiness, health and longevity. In her book, Dr. Joy shows you how to get relationships right in a clear and comprehensive way and shares the outcomes you can expect from her process. Recommended reading for both individuals and therapists!”
—Harville Hendrix, Ph.D. and Helen LaKelly Hunt, Ph.D., Authors of Getting the Love You Want
“Joy offers a wise, practical, and well-researched template for creating healthy relationships of any kind. While reading it I kept thinking, ‘This is like an encyclopedia of relationship wisdom.' I recommend this book to anyone wishing to expand their social-emotional intelligence!”
—Susan Campbell, Ph.D., Author of Getting Real, Truth in Dating, and Five-Minute Relationship Repair
“Read this book if you want to have healthy, mature relationships. Dr. Joy provides the tools, insight and research to get the job done.”
—Dr. Jenn Mann, Author of The Relationship Fix: Dr. Jenn's 6-Step Guide to Improving Communication, Connection, and Intimacy and Host of VH1 Couples Therapy with Dr. Jenn
“In this brilliant treasure of a book, Melanie Joy expertly and elegantly explains you everything you'll ever need to know about how to successfully navigate any kind of relationship.”
—Kathy Freston, NY Times bestselling author Quantum Wellness, The Lean, and The One
“Melanie Joy's book is really speaking my language with integrity, resilience, empathy, compassion, security, authenticity, and connection. Joy nails what it takes to make relationships great. The book is well-written with huge practical value. Getting Relationships Right is a must read!”
—Linda Bloom, Co-author of 101 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Married: Simple Lessons to Make Love Last
