Karl Pillemer Ph.D.

About

Karl Pillemer, Ph.D., is a professor of Human Development at Cornell University. A family sociologist and gerontologist, he is the founder of the Cornell Estrangement and Reconciliation Project, in which over 1600 individuals have been surveyed regarding their their experiences of family rifts and ways to overcome them. He is the author Fault Lines: Fractured Families and How to Mend Them (Avery, 2020). His two earlier books share older people's advice for living: 30 Lessons for Loving: The Wisest Americans Advice on Love, Marriage, and Relationships and 30 Lessons for Living: Tried and True Advice from the Wisest Americans. He writes and speaks extensively about family relationships, marriage, and elder wisdom.

Books by Karl Pillemer Ph.D.

Recent Posts

Why Is Estrangement So Painful?

Why is family estrangement so painful? New research identifies four key threats to well-being posed by a family rift.

Are You Ready to Reconcile?

Wondering whether this might be the time to reach out to an estranged relative? Here are four pieces of advice from people who have successfully reconciled.

A Key to Harry and Meghan's Estrangement

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's estrangement from the royal family is puzzling to many. However, research on the causes of estrangement suggests one powerful factor.

Estrangement, Reconciliation, and the Virus

Some families are overcoming long-standing estrangements in the wake of the virus. Research shows that this outcome is not surprising.

Perfect Parenting? Give It Up

What's one secret to good parenting? Give up on perfection.

3 Rules for Getting Along With Your In-Laws

Are your in-laws driving you crazy? Try these three tips from people who have also experienced this and solved the problem.

5 Tips for Avoiding Regrets About Love

Wondering how to avoid having regrets about love and relationships? These five tips will help keep you from saying "if only..."

What to Do in Your 30s to Be Happy in Your 50s

What can you do in your 20s and 30s to increase your chances of happiness later in life? Here are three key lessons from the real experts.

The Shortcut to Finding Your Purpose in Life

Finding a purpose or direction in life has become a challenge for many people (young and not-so-young). One solution is simpler than it seems: Interview your future self.

4 Great (and Quick) Relationship Hacks

Feel like your relationship is going stale? Here's some advice for people who've been through the relationship doldrums.