From Hurtful to Healthy: Strategies to Disrupt Hurtful Messages and Build Stronger Relationships

Thursday, February 26, 2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Pioneer Bank, Adams St., Mankato (Victory Dr. & Adams)

Healthy communication is essential for mental, emotional, and relational well-being, yet even close relationships can be marked by hurtful words and verbal aggression. In this engaging session, we’ll explore how hurtful communication patterns emerge in friendships, sibling relationships, and romantic partnerships, and why they matter for long-term health. Drawing on research about prevalence, forms, and motivations behind these behaviors, we’ll also consider how these dynamics affect older adults and their social networks. The final portion of the talk will focus on practical strategies to disrupt harmful exchanges and foster constructive conversations, even when discussing tough topics like political differences. Participants will leave with actionable tools to strengthen their relationships and promote healthier dialogue. Join us for a lively discussion that blends research insights with real-world applications.

Presenter:

Kristen Cvancara, Ph.D., is a professor of Communication and Media at Minnesota State University, Mankato. She studies how words and actions affect relationships and helps individuals communicate more effectively. Kristen shares her insights through teaching, consulting, and speaking — including her TEDxMSU talk on the power of communication patterns. Beyond the classroom, she has worked with leaders for over 20 years to enable greater success through stronger relationships. Her research appears in leading journals and books on relationships and communication.

Sponsor:

• Steve Gilbert