Don't force friends to pick sides after a split

Dr. Barton Goldsmith

Ventura County Star

When a couple breaks up, there may be a division of property and money, and if there are children (or pets), there will be a custody arrangement as well. The final thing to be divvied up will be your mutual friends. This process can be unsettling for all involved.

Most of the time, true friends try to remain neutral. Make no mistake, being in this position is tough and can be burdensome on the friendship. The good ones won’t want to take sides, and they can find it hard to listen to the breaking-up friend vent. It’s simply uncomfortable to hear that kind of negativity about somebody you like.

Source: http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2009/jun/28/dont-force-friends-to-pick-sides-after-a-split/