How do you deal with annoying in-laws?

1. 89

   jpcmcposted 10 years ago

   How do you deal with annoying in-laws?
   
   Not everyone has positive relationships with the in-laws.  If you're one of the unlucky ones, how do you deal with them?

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2. 0

   Motown2Chitownposted 10 years ago

   My in-laws can be tough.  They have not always been good to my husband and often do things that are very hurtful. Their lives are very different from ours in many ways.  The absolute best thing for me has been to keep a desk able distance between us while still being as open and loving as

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   1. 89

      jpcmcposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      I guess avoiding the confrontation is all that one can do.

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3. 83

   bethperryposted 10 years ago

   Problems with in-laws vary, but I had a problem with one of my in-laws in that she didn't think I was good enough for her son. In my situation I chose to just treat her with all the respect I wanted her to treat me. Eventually she lost her antagonism and we became very close.

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      jpcmcposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Kindness and respect can do miracles.

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4. 74

   CraftytotheCoreposted 10 years ago

   This is a very good question, especially this time of year when the holidays are coming.  That's when most people find themselves in an awkward predicament. 
   
   First, it helps a person to understand why the in-law behaves or acts the way they do.  For example, some people grow up very privileged and can be critical of those in today's society who are not.  Meaning, some in-laws are much older, so they are very opinionated toward the younger generations.  Or, some were raised with different values/traditions.  Understanding why they act the way they do helps ease the frustration toward them.
   
   Other in-laws are simply intrusive for no rhyme or reason.  Married couples must agree with each other.  There can't be taking sides of the in-laws.   
   
   The most important thing is to work as a family.  The in-law should not be involving themselves in to matters within a family unit, unless the advice is solicited.  It only leads to problems between couples and frustration when a spouse chooses the in-law's side.
   
   Limit time with the in-laws.  (Absence makes the heart grow fonder.)
   Don't allow intrusive interruptions to ruin your plans. 
   Limit phone conversations. 
   Have boundaries in place to protect your own healthy marriage. 
   
   My ex MIL did some extremely mean things to me, and was very intrusive.  The last trip to my home, I reserved a hotel for her.  She was used to staying at my home for months at a time, forwarding her private calls to my home, treating me like a servant, and she even stole from my home.  I even went to marriage counseling to help my ex understand how I was feeling.  To no avail, we divorced anyway.  He was not supportive and put his mother first.  That ended our marriage among other things.

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      jpcmcposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you for sharing your experience.  I think you can make a hub on the subject and many will definitely learn and enjoy from what you'll write.

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5. 56

   Merrick Millerposted 9 years ago

   Dealing with in-laws can be difficult.  My advice to you is to accept them as they are. Live your life as you do. Allow them only a little space in your head. Pray for their well being. And agree that its ok to disagree.
   
   If there are offenses made during a visit, address it, apologize or ask for an apology and move on.
   
   Respect each others values and lives and above all remember one thing- your in-laws created your spouse. They must have done something right.
   ; )
   
   Good Luck!
   M

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