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The term "sigma male" has surged in popularity in recent years, especially in online discussions about masculinity and social roles. Often depicted as the 'lone wolf', the sigma male is said to operate independently of traditional social hierarchies, unlike alpha and beta males. But what really is a sigma male, and is there meaningful evidence to back up this concept? Unlike alpha males, who are viewed as dominant leaders, or beta males, often seen as submissive followers, si

Erich Fromm, in his book 'The Art of Loving', described love as much more than a passive feeling, rather it is an art that requires constant reflection, self-discipline, and effort. When those prerequisites are not in place, love dies, or perhaps more specifically, love never existed in the first place. I would contend that the latter is indeed the case. A google search will reveal a plethora of articles on how to 'unlove' someone. It would seem that this is a question that i

The Book Group @ The Viktor Frankl Centre Northern Ireland – Inaugural Meeting Our first online Logotherapy Book Group gathering will take place on Sunday, 9th November 2025 at 7pm (GMT) . We’ll be discussing 'When Breath Becomes Air' by Paul Kalanithi, exploring how his story of illness, purpose, and mortality invites us to think about what gives life meaning. This is an informal, welcoming space open to everyone — whether you’re new to Logotherapy, beginning your training,

In a world that often glorifies social interaction and communal experiences, the concept of being a "loner" can carry a negative connotation. Although I will use this term throughout for consistency; it is not used pejoratively, as will become clear. Psychology and philosophy offer a more nuanced understanding of solitude and the individuals who thrive in it. This blog post looks into what these disciplines teach us about loners, the character traits that define them, and th

Life is a series of choices, some of which can be truly transformative. Among these, the decisions we make about significant relationships can have the most profound impact. Whether it's choosing a partner, deciding to end a relationship, or navigating family dynamics, these choices can shape our lives in ways we may not fully understand in the moment. In this blog post, I will touch upon what constitutes life-changing decisions, consider the elements that should guide our re

If someone tells us that our behaviour, or attitude, has hurt them, then we must take ownership of that; it is not a value judgement, rather it is a statement of fact. It is not our business to deny or try to argue those feelings away. Doing so only makes matters worse, the suffering deeper, and it is an abrogation of the responsibility we bear towards others. To hold ourselves accountable for our actions is a human trait that is far from easy to enact. It is not a superficia

As we navigate through life, the reality of death often encourages us to reflect on what truly matters. Many individuals, when faced with...

Chimpanzees, our closest living relatives, captivate both researchers and the public alike. Their complex social structures and emotional...

Sacrificial love goes beyond just affection; it embodies a deep commitment to others. This type of love is about genuinely caring for...

In our lives, some individuals leave a lasting impact that shapes who we are. Whether through feelings of love, friendship, or even...

Ghosting has become a common term in today's relationships, especially in dating and friendships. It describes the act of suddenly...

Integrating the principles of Logotherapy and Existential Analysis with poetry as a therapeutic tool involves using creative expression...

Emotional pain is an inevitable part of the human experience. It can stem from various sources, including loss, rejection, and trauma....

Bibliotherapy taps into the powerful connection between reading and mental well-being. By using books and poetry as tools for healing,...

Life can often feel like a constant series of hurdles. We may feel defeated, questioning our judgement and even our self-worth. Whether...

Narcissism is so more than a clinical diagnosis; it is a complex psychological phenomenon that has drawn considerable interest in today's...

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, solitude is often misunderstood. Many people view it as loneliness or isolation. However,...

There is a section in a chapter of my forthcoming book, 'Finding Meaning in Conflict & Beyond: The Story Of Northern Ireland' , where I...

www.viktorfranklcentreni.com Diploma in Logotherapy & Existential Analysis Introduction The Diploma in Logotherapy and Existential...

In a world overwhelmed by constant noise and distractions, the value of silence can often feel lost. From the incessant buzz of our...