In Indian families a girl is just not marrying to a man, but to his family. Managing a relationship with in-laws is as important as managing the relationship with husband.
Relationships with in-laws can turn toxic due to various factors. Here are some common reasons:
Differences in values and expectations:
In-laws and their children’s spouses may have different cultural, religious, or personal values, which can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings.
Interference and boundaries:
In-laws may overstep boundaries by interfering in the couple’s decisions, parenting styles, or personal lives, causing tension and resentment.
Communication issues:
Poor communication or misunderstandings between family members can escalate conflicts and create a toxic environment.
Jealousy and competition:
In some cases, in-laws may feel threatened or jealous of the relationship between their child and their spouse, leading to toxic behaviour and attempts to undermine the marriage or partnership.
Past grievances or unresolved conflicts:
Pre-existing issues or unresolved conflicts between family members can resurface or worsen after marriage, leading to toxicity within the relationship.
Unrealistic expectations:
In-laws may have unrealistic expectations of their child’s spouse or the marriage itself, which can put strain on the relationship and create a toxic dynamic.
Personality clashes:
Differences in personalities, temperaments, or communication styles can contribute to conflicts and toxicity within the family.
It is important to note that not all in-law relationships are toxic, and many families have healthy and positive dynamics. However, when toxicity arises, open communication, setting boundaries, and seeking professional help, such as family therapy, can be beneficial in resolving conflicts and improving relationships.