Talking to Crazy - Mark Goulston

Talking to "Crazy": How to Deal with the Irrational and Impossible People in Your Life by Dr. Mark Goulston is a practical guide to navigating conversations with people who exhibit irrational, emotionally charged, or seemingly "crazy" behaviour. Drawing on his background as a psychiatrist, hostage negotiation trainer, and business consultant, Goulston offers insights into the psychology behind such behaviour and provides a set of communication strategies aimed at de-escalating conflict and building connection.

Rather than labelling people as "crazy" in a derogatory sense, the book re frames their actions as emotional or psychological distress—and teaches you to respond with empathy, calm, and effective listening. Tools like the "Sanity Cycle" and techniques such as “leaning in,” “getting through their radar,” and “empathetic listening” are designed to help readers disarm defensiveness and reach even the most difficult individuals.