Dealing With In-Laws: Marriage Counseling And Resolving Conflicts Peacefully

Marriage is the union of two people, their children, and laws that govern family dynamics, We may not be vocal about it, but getting the approval of extended relatives, specifically your in-laws, is a big thing for most people who are trying to connect with united family members. It is believed to create a healthy familial relationship to create significance in moments of marriage. Truth be told, many people have issues with the parents of both sites despite being perfect as a couple. Parents of couples will have varying opinions about their marriage, including the traits, character, and other what nots with the married couple. In this article, we have listed the different scenarios that lead to conflicts among extended families. We’ve also listed the different ways in which marriage counseling can help resolve your issues.

In-law problems are common ground in marriages, and usually, it involves crazy specific in-law issues. These can include warning signs of interference, clashing of values, or conflict of interest. It cannot help to participate in handling decisions by the couple.

Sometimes, these people don’t realize they are already overstepping the boundaries that affect well-being and mental health, for example, when they point to decide on the little things for their daughter or son-in-law and treat them as kids.

“[M]ost people struggle with in-law issues or in-law relationships on some level,” said Meredith Hansen, Psy.D, and if you are experiencing these challenges, know that you’re not alone.

There is always that wanting of approval of extended relatives because most people who are trying to connect within the circle of the family while dealing with extended family - People in the dining table having dinner
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The Role of In-Laws In A Marriage

Effectively managing mother-in-law relationships with toxic in-laws, especially with mothers-in-law, and tips for dealing with their behavior as a daughter-in-law have a profound impact on a marriage. This fact is backed up by research that states that close relationships with in-laws are detrimental to a couple’s happiness and peace. Conflict with in-laws may lead to marital problems. Therefore, immediate family members should establish boundaries.

A mother or father-in-law may disapprove of several things in how your deal with your marriage, such as your united front family life, your job, or the way you raise your children. However, their unsolicited parenting advice will depend on the married couple if the views of the in-laws will have a significant effect on their complicated relationship.

Moreover, it will also depend on how the couple reacts to the views, ideas, and opinions given by the spouse’s family. Both should focus on marriage and family relationships and setting boundaries to get along, whether it’s with a father-in-law, a toxic in-law, or even with a sister-in-law.

Marriage Problems Caused By In-Laws And Its Effect On Your Marital Situation

“Healthy couples separate their own relationship from their in-laws,” according to Margarita Tartakovsky, M.S.

“They remember that no matter how complicated or difficult their in-laws may be, they are not married to them, and time and again, they must set boundaries to maintain a healthy relationship” F. Diane Barth, LCSW, said.

dealing in-laws - A photo of two beautiful women together. No matter how complicated or difficult the situation is, they still love each other.
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Solving Conflicts With In-Laws

There are various ways of dealing with in-laws and even your own parents. One way to rule it and have a healthy relationship, or law relationships, is to try to focus and communicate to them appropriately to setting boundaries. Some couples initiate by gently confronting them about their issues regarding the extended family’s involvement in the family.

Through this, one partner or both were able to protect, establish authority, and limitations, especially with parenting in their family’s system. It will help them get along and strengthen their family relationship.

However, if matters between you and your spouse or husband are not going well due to the consistent interference and control of in-laws, the situation has to be dealt with in the house differently. You might spend unnecessary physical and emotional energy dealing with this. And that is not helpful.

The Importance Of Seeking Marriage Counseling When Resolving Conflicts Between Married Couple And In-Laws

Couples or partners who seek marriage counseling due to problems caused by their relationship with extended family are not a new concept. Seeking guidance from a family therapist can be a valuable step in addressing issues related to toxic in-laws and improving family relationships. It is, in fact, being their own family is a common problem between a married couple and in-laws.

Another way to solve this issue is for the couple to undergo online marriage counseling. The eye-to-eye treatment will help couples maintain a healthy relationship and decide based on the specific advice of a professional.

Marital Issues – You Should Try Online Marriage Counseling To Resolve Conflicts In The Family

Nowadays, a lot of married couples choose to undergo online marriage counseling instead of having face-to-face interactions with a therapist. Most of them are not comfortable meeting a therapist traditionally. Some couples prefer to do online therapy and counseling because of the benefits it can provide.

A woman seeking help through online counseling. One benefit of online marriage counseling is its accessibility.
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What Are The Benefits Of Online Marriage Counseling For Married Couples?

One benefit of online marriage and family counseling is its accessibility. With only a laptop and a stable internet connection, you can start your online counseling session anytime, even at night, and anywhere you feel comfortable, enhancing your married life. It is also relatively cheaper than face-to-face meetings with wellness therapy experts. The following are just some of the benefits of online marriage counseling:

  1. Convenience and accessibility: Online marriage counseling allows couples to receive professional help from the comfort of their own homes. They can schedule sessions at a time that works best for both of them without the need to travel to a physical location.
  2. Greater privacy: Some couples may feel more comfortable discussing personal and sensitive issues in the privacy of their own space. Online counseling offers a level of confidentiality and anonymity that can encourage open and honest communication.
  3. Wide range of options: Online marriage counseling provides access to a larger pool of therapists and counselors compared to traditional in-person counseling. This means couples have more choices to find a professional who best suits their needs and preferences.
  4. Flexible communication channels: Online counseling platforms offer various communication options, such as video calls, voice calls, instant messaging, and email. This flexibility allows couples to communicate in the way they feel most comfortable, ensuring effective and meaningful discussions.
  5. Cost-effective: Online marriage counseling is often more affordable than in-person counseling. Couples can save money on transportation costs and may have access to lower-priced counseling packages or sliding-scale fees.

Online Marriage Counseling Provides Group Sessions – All You Need To Know

Online marriage counseling also provides group sessions. Your online therapist may connect you with couples experiencing the same dilemma, and you can exchange stories or a hypothetical situation that might happen, and you’re afraid of and pointers with them. With this, you will be able to understand better that you are not the only wife or husband experiencing the difficult situation you are in.

Online Marriage Counseling Provides Anonymity And Privacy

Among other things, anonymity and privacy are also significant benefits that a couple can gain from a visit to online marriage counseling treatment. It is not for everyone, so to speak, but it is definitely worth the try as it can help lives. If you still want to know more about the benefits of online marriage counseling, you can quickly check this link:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What To Do When You Don’t Like Your Spouse’s Parents?

It’s essential to address this situation with open communication. First, consider talking to your spouse about your feelings, expressing your concerns calmly and honestly. Seek compromise and find ways to navigate interactions with your spouse’s parents, focusing on mutual respect and understanding. If necessary, consider seeking guidance from a family therapist to help improve the family relationships.

How Do You Handle The Difficult Parent Of Your Spouse?

Handling a difficult father-in-law or mother-in-law can be challenging. Start by maintaining your composure and not reacting emotionally. Engage in conversations with your spouse to develop a united front. Additionally, you can set healthy boundaries to manage their behavior while prioritizing your married life.

How Do You Handle Your Spouse’s Parents That Disrespect You?

Dealing with toxic in-laws who disrespect you requires assertiveness and clear communication. Speak to your spouse about your feelings and ask for their support in addressing the issue together. Consider involving a family therapist if necessary to mediate and improve the family relationships.

What will you do if the parents of your spouse are nagging you?

When facing nagging from your spouse’s parents, it’s crucial to stay patient and composed. Discuss your concerns with your spouse, emphasizing the impact of the constant nagging on your married life. Together, explore ways to address the issue and, if needed, establish healthy boundaries with their parents.

When your spouse’s parents are toxic?

If your spouse’s parents exhibit toxic behavior, it’s vital to prioritize your well-being and your family relationships. Engage in open conversations with your spouse about the toxic behavior and its effects on your relationship. Seek support from a family therapist to find constructive ways to handle the situation.

Is it normal not to like your mother-in-law?

It’s relatively common for individuals to have differences or conflicts with their mother-in-law. These feelings can arise due to various factors, but it’s crucial to work towards understanding and improved communication for the sake of marriage and family harmony.

How do you tell if your spouse’s parents don’t like you?

Signs that your spouse’s parents may not like you can include cold or distant behavior, frequent criticism, or exclusion from family gatherings. In such cases, communication with your spouse is key to understanding their parents’ feelings and working together to address any issues.

How do you set healthy boundaries with the parents of your spouse?

Establishing healthy boundaries with your spouse’s parents is essential for a harmonious married life. Communicate your boundaries clearly and respectfully with your spouse, and together, decide how to communicate these boundaries to their parents while maintaining respect and understanding.

Why are mother-in-laws so difficult?

Mother-in-laws may be perceived as difficult due to various factors, including differences in personalities, expectations, and cultural backgrounds. It’s essential to engage in open dialogue and find common ground to improve your relationship and family relationships.

Do people divorce because of in-laws?

While in-laws can contribute to marital conflicts, divorce is typically a result of various factors. Issues with in-laws can strain a marriage, but the decision to divorce usually involves a combination of factors, including communication problems, compatibility issues, and more.