Living with family members as as adult can often be an awkward situation, not least if it is something that you are not doing out of choice. While some can make it work and even enjoy being around their close relatives, many others quickly realize that it gives ample opportunity for old hierarchies and exploitative circumstances to arise.

It leaves a dilemma for those who cohabitate with family. While most people want to help if they are going through a difficult time, that doesn’t necessarily mean that every demand needs to be given into. In fact, it’s often a necessity to stand your ground if you want to maintain your sanity. 

The only issue is if the family in question is not willing to accept this. It’s common for this to be the case, and it can easily make a tense dynamic even more strained unless there is a change in mindset.