A new study from Lehigh University found that it doesn’t matter how often mothers argue with their toddlers—like so much in life, quality is more important than quantity. So, what makes a “quality” argument? Both people justifying their opinions and then reaching a compromise without anyone insisting on their particular point of view without explaining it, teasing, or engaging in other negative behavior. This is good to remember when fighting with people who may no longer be toddlers but still act like them. [NLM]

When my mom started trying to lose weight just so she could be skinnier than me, I tried to support her sadistic desire. Okay, maybe her personal trainer wasn’t a personal attack at my waistline, but I thought once you hit a certain age, you just looked forward to getting fat—I already feel like I’m there. Anyway, when my mom, who I shared a size with, started trying giving me her “fat clothes” because she got so thin, I knew she was sick, but I didn’t realize she was part of a growing epidemic known as Desperate Housewives Syndrome, named for the popular television show that stars skinny minis like Teri Hatcher. With their role model-types looking “fit” over 40, more middle-aged women are feeling pressure to lose their extra rolls.