Newswise — Politics have been known to cause conflict between neighbors, strain family relationships end friendships and divide countries. For Americans, this year's presidential race is no different from any other; differing opinions on political parties, issues and candidates are wreaking havoc on many relationships.
Stuart Twemlow, MD, a psychiatrist at The Menninger Clinic in Houston, offers this advice, "Avoid letting your political enthusiasm turn you into a verbal bully."
With the decisive vote set to be cast November 4, November 5 will find Americans on both sides of the emotional coin. While one political party will be experiencing joy, satisfaction and relief, the other party may be feeling sadness, anger and disappointment.
"Beware of your actions in the face of others discontent. Too much jubilance, too much emphasis on victory, may cost you a friend," advises Dr. Twemlow. "Enjoy your moment, but be tactful."
With almost half the electorate expected to be left dissatisfied at the end of this year's election, a growing sense of futility may be pervasive in nearly half the population for some months to come. So how do we all get along again, especially following such a caustic political cycle?
Dr. Twemlow, an internationally recognized expert in community interventions and the roots of violence, says if your goal is regaining a friendship lost in the political heat of this election year, temporarily setting aside politics altogether is a prudent strategy.
"Choose to discuss subjects that are safe and unlikely to create tension," Dr. Twemlow said. "That will smooth the transition back into a friend's life."
If you simply can't avoid more political debate, he said, then take care to first congratulate the victor or soothe the vanquished. Whatever you do, don't gloat. Avoid such statements as, "This is not the America I know," which is counterproductive. Americans do share a core set of values, despite differences, so finding common ground is the best avenue to follow in restoring order to friendships.
"Term limits are not only good for elected officials, but also for celebrating what can be interpreted as your friend's loss," Dr. Twemlow said. "Friendships, after all, are designed to last longer than elected officials."
About The Menninger ClinicThe Menninger Clinic is a nonprofit international specialty psychiatric center, providing treatment, research and education. Founded in 1925 in Kansas, Menninger relocated to Houston in 2003 and is affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine. Since 1991, Menninger has been named among the leading psychiatric hospitals in U.S.News & World Report's annual ranking of America's Best Hospitals. Menninger is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Photo of Dr. Stuart Twemlow available upon request.
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