Few things test a family relationship like when a relative falls on hard times. Most of the time, people expect those who are related to them to be the first to support them and offer help when they go through something difficult. This isn’t always an unreasonable expectation, especially if they have helped them out in the past; however, there are often limits to what family members can do, and some can’t help but stretch the boundaries. For example, most are not in a position to loan large amounts of money, and many have living circumstances where having somebody stay with them just isn’t feasible.

Nonetheless, those in desperate situations (or who are just plain entitled) often overstep in what they ask of their relatives. It can lead to some major disagreements and resentments if they aren’t careful, making the dilemma that they are dealing with even more complex when there was already a lot to consider.