How Much Should You Criticize Your Spouse? | Male/Female Hour

Podcasts > Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager

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Wednesday, October 28, 2026

How much criticism is too much in a marriage? On this episode of the Male Female Hour, Dennis Prager explores the difficult balance between offering helpful advice and constantly criticizing the person you love. He discusses why the way criticism is delivered matters, how to recognize whether it comes from genuine concern or hidden anger, and why a relationship filled with criticism can slowly undermine confidence and affection.

Dennis argues that while loving criticism can help spouses and friends grow, a constant stream of negative comments can damage even the strongest relationships. He encourages listeners to consider the ratio of compliments to criticisms, avoid humiliating a spouse in front of others, and learn to accept feedback from someone who genuinely wants the best for them. He also highlights the destructive role of contempt, arguing that respect is essential to a lasting marriage.

Through calls from listeners sharing their own marital experiences, Dennis offers a practical reminder: the goal should not be to eliminate all criticism, but to make it less frequent, more loving, and more constructive. A happier relationship may begin with a simple question: Am I helping the person I love, or am I making them feel like they can never do anything right?

Follow on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timeless-wisdom-with-dennis-prager/id1517302239

Learn more about Dennis Prager: https://pragertopia.com/

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Learn more about the Salem Podcast Network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/