You may not call me names.” “If you want to discuss issues, not attack me, I’ll talk. Let me know when you’re ready.” Establish that you’re there for them and willing to listen ...

If that doesn’t work, we avoid talking about it. My advice for couples in a similar situation: Humor and respect are needed.

Some are just making small talk. Some are looking for an excuse to cause trouble. As Kenny Rogers sang in “The Gambler”: “You gotta know when to hold ‘em / Know when to fold ‘em / Know ...

Here are their tips for how to have the “What are we?” talk. 1. Know when it’s the right time to define the relationship—and when it isn’t. You know it’s the right time to have the ...