Sylvia L. Mikucki-Enyart Ph.D.

About

Sylvia L. Mikucki-Enyart, Ph.D., is an associate professor of interpersonal and family communication. She is also the Editor of the Journal of Family Communication.

She studies communication in adult family relationships, including in-law relationships and adult families of divorce and stepfamilies.

Using her almost two decades of research, she provides families with evidence-based, actionable strategies to create and sustain healthy family bonds.

Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, Huffington Post, and Real Simple magazine, and she’s been a guest on Talk of Iowa on Iowa Public Radio.

She shares frequent advice on Instagram and TikTok @dr.sylviamikuckienyart.

Recent Posts

3 Problems With Staying Together for the Kids

Although often well intentioned, staying in a conflictual or unhappy marriage "for the kids" can have more drawbacks than benefits.

Deciding to Divorce: Choosing You

Reflecting on five key questions about your marriage can help when deciding whether or not to divorce.

Enough With the “Toxic” In-Law Trope

Thinking everything an in-law does is "toxic" creates negative expectations and fractured relationships. Learn to shift your mindset to help strengthen your in-law relationship.

The Potentially Harmful Downside of #BoyMom Culture

#BoyMom culture creates a harmful environment for in-law relationships. Try these tips for overcoming its influence and protecting family bonds.

Childcare in the Summer? Welcome to Grandparent Camp

Grandparents can be a great source of summer childcare, but hiccups happen. Learn how to address the three most common pain points to ensure summertime fun.

Gray Divorce: Managing Uncertainty After Parental Divorce

Unsure how to move on after parental divorce in later life? Strategies to help you manage uncertainty and move forward.

A Holiday In-Law Survival Guide

Spending time with your in-laws this holiday season? Simple communication strategies can ease tensions and make the season merry and bright.

The Push-Pull of the Festive Season: Creating a Holiday Game Plan

Is balancing family commitments during the holidays stressing you out? Clear communication can help you navigate the push-pull of the season.

Sadness and Joy: Managing the Transition to an Empty Nest

Transitioning to an empty nest? Rediscovering and redefining yourself and your marriage can ease the change.

Avoiding Post-Wedding Depression

Prevent post-wedding blues with collaborative wedding planning.