Boundaries look different in every family, and that can cause problems when two families join together.

One of the biggest adjustments that many people have to make when they first get into a serious relationship is learning to live with their in-laws. As we all know by now, even those with the most supportive partners are not guaranteed to get along with their partner’s family. Even those who are blessed with positive in-law relationships can sometimes struggle with the different personalities and expectations that they expose them to.

Thankfully, most people do not have to share a home with the parents of their partner these days. However, it can make it all the more jarring when family members visit one another. There is plenty of opportunity for conflicts to arise when house rules are not followed, entitled behavior springs up, and boundaries get trampled on. 

The tricky thing about older relatives who are a part of your partner’s family is that you are less likely to feel like you have the right to speak up if they overstep in some way. In some ways, it is worse when you have a good relationship with them, as you don’t want to jeopardize it.