It sometimes seems our days are filled with difficult people, and often women find that to be true more than most because all too often the male-female dynamic gives permission to some men to be difficult, if not oppressive, to women. People with personality disorders and character failings almost always add difficulty and disorder to our days. Using an example of the all-too-common dynamics of interaction with the head of a homeowners association board Dr. Kim Lannon gives us the basics of the problems we find with difficult people and offers some ways to respond that are more effective and also help us lead happier and healthier lives.