From CBS Chicago:
With news of sexual misbehavior and politics on many people’s minds, a family therapist offers advice on dealing with potentially stressful situations at the holiday table.
According to Joyce Marter, a licensed psychotherapist and founder of Urban Balance, which provides comprehensive counseling services, if children don’t want to hug, kiss or show other forms of physical affection to a relative or guest, don’t force them to.
“I think it is important for parents to remember not to request, or require even, that their kid hug or kiss other family members — just to be kind and polite and respectful is enough. If the kids want to express affection, that’s fine, but that’s their choice,” she said.