TULSA, Okla. — These last few months have highlighted differences within our country, city, community, and even some families.
As we wade through the challenges of a contentious election, how do you keep a relationship positive when you find someone doesn’t agree with your views?
To move past a disagreement with relationships intact, OU Medical professor and psychiatrist Dr. Britta Ostermyer recommends taking a broader look at the person.
"A person that doesn’t share your view isn’t some kind of bad person," Dr. Ostermyer said. "They just have a different upbringing and life experiences, so perhaps different needs."
She also mentioned focusing more on how we can relate to each other and if political conversations get too heated, limit them from dominating the dinner table on a daily basis. Also, limit how much media and political news you take in.
"You have to monitor your screen time when taking in social media and the news," Dr. Ostermeyer said. "Especially before bed, do not be on your phone or computer all night scrolling and scrolling."
Lastly, you're advised to not make every view a final decision on how you see someone as a moral human being.
“A person that doesn’t share your views thinks differently, that doesn’t make them any worse or better," Dr. Ostermeyer said. "It just means they have a personal opinion and that's fine."
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