Over on reddit, a commenter said that they once read a "social science study" which showed that people are more likely to rally in support of a cause when there's a common enemy to hate. It supposedly showed how when people were given the opportunity to unite and campaign for a positive cause, they showed little interest; but that the presence of a hostil opponent motivated the group to unite and rally against it. Can anyone think of a study along those lines?
posted by dontjumplarry on Mar 10, 2013 - 4 answers

Mom's about to start psychotherapy for a condition that has been around for a long time and that we only recently had the nerve to talk to her about. How can we be supportive, what can/should we do to help her through the shock of going to therapy for the first time, and what else can we do? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Oct 21, 2011 - 8 answers

Given that you've suffered some form of abuse growing up, is it possible to have a successful relationship given you have no self-awareness of the fact that this is not normal? [more inside]
posted by gadha on Apr 26, 2010 - 19 answers

How do I find other people who have witnessed the suicide of a stranger? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Dec 1, 2008 - 15 answers

How do you best support a survivor of childhood abuse? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Jul 24, 2005 - 17 answers