LOS ANGELES—Slixa.com is taking aim at seasonal angst in a new article/survival guide, “How to Family For the Holidays (A Guide For Sex Workers and Other Black Sheep).”
In the Slixa.com/blog post, writer Tyler Dårlig Ulv interviews Dr. Eric Sprankle, associate professor of psychology and co-director of the Sexuality Studies Program at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
“This year, instead of struggling my way through big meals and small talk with people I often see only annually, I thought it might be better to proactively seek out the advice of a professional,” he writes. “I knew he was just the guy to answer some challenging questions about family interactions and handling conflicts for the holidays.”
The interview touches on the topics of handling disagreements, discrimination and diffusing ‘extra contentious’ family situations, how staying in a hotel room can provide “a sanctuary to recharge and escape if and when needed” and how there’s no shame in complete avoidance.
“Unless you’re a Kardashian, I don’t think you’re contractually obligated to hang out with your family,” said Sprankle, advising to set “appropriate boundaries for yourself: ‘I’ll only spend two hours at my parents’ house.’ ‘I’m willing to go, but I’ll leave once Uncle Bud Light gets drunk.’ Or even, ‘You know what, my cats are my family; I’m staying home this year.’”
Read the full interview with Dr. Eric Sprankle at Slixa.com/blog.
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