Three is a Magic Number

When I explain psychological theory to students, I draw the analogy between theory and a computer’s operating system.   The operating system runs in the background, and for the most part, we are barely aware of it.   Yet, it influences everything we do on the computer.   Only when a PC user gets on a Mac machine (or vice-a-versa) does one become aware of the operating system.   I tell students, “You all have a theory—an operating system working in you.   You may or may not be aware of it, but you have beliefs/assumptions about why humans do what they do.   And these beliefs/assumptions affect how you approach and interact with others and how you make your way through your life.   My goal is to help you raise these assumptions to your awareness and maybe call some into question. My goal is to help you become aware of your operating system, maybe forcing you to try on another theory for a bit so you realize which one you are functioning under.”   Hold on to this story for a second, and r

Today I'm thankful for... 1. These three people.  The little one reminds me I know how to play and reminds us all that life is about being present with each other.  The middle one is the most thoughtful person I know, and has incredible sense of herself, which I hope she holds onto forever.  And the oldest one has taught me that raising a child is a process, not destination, and has provided me with intense joy and pride in his new found maturity.  2. This guy.  He is a source of energy for me.  He makes me a better person, and helps me express who I am. 3. Teaching an online class this term, which has been an incredible challenge for me.  But I have learned a ton about my teaching style and pedagogy through this experiment.  I still don't buy into the model and think it is an incredibly inefficient method of teaching and learning, but I am learning from my younger colleagues who "get it."  Plus, I am teaching Play Therapy, which I haven't taught for 7 year