Though gathering with family and friends is a joyful part of the holiday season, navigating political tension can lead to hurt feelings.
Setting firm boundaries about the topics up for discussion and redirecting conversation to shared interests and neutral subjects are key to maintaining a cheerful atmosphere, said Brittney Schrick, extension associate professor and family life specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
“If you don’t want to talk about politics, then you need to say, ‘I’m not going to talk about that,'” Schrick said. “And if the other person insists, then you need to be willing to leave the conversation. If you can, avoid interactions with people whom you know are going to escalate tension or conflict — even if it’s your grandmother…