It is all too common for people to live vicariously through their kids. Whether they push them to excel in academics, want to see them become a star on stage, or are really into sport, there is a whole category of parents and other close relatives out there who use the children in their lives as a means to live out the dreams that they couldn’t realize themselves.

As most of us know, this has plenty of potential to end badly. It is easy for feelings on every side to get hurt, although naturally, the most important factor is the child’s well-being. When that gets jeopardized is when things get serious, and if they have other responsible adults in their life, it is essential that they take a stand to defend them. This can sometimes make a situation worse before it gets better, even though it is a necessary thing to do.