When a couple gets married, they extend their family. While they may have previously met their in-laws on several occasions, marriage generally means a closer involvement.
In most cases, this is a positive. In-laws may form strong bonds and lean on one another for support. Nonetheless, this isn’t always the case, and in-laws can be seen as interfering. Outlined below are some of the more common examples of in-law interference that can cause marital disputes.
Overprotectiveness
It is natural for parents to be protective of their children, even when they are grown-ups. However, this can cross the line into overprotectiveness and even controlling behavior. A spouse may find themselves never being “good enough” and never being accepted. Over time, this can create tension in the marriage.
Overprotectiveness can also come into play in terms of decision-making. For example, if one spouse cannot make any major decisions without running it by their parents first, the other spouse can start to feel frustrated and ostracized.
Financial interference
Some couples, particularly young couples who are newly married, may have a difficult time financially. They may have just purchased a new home and started a family, for example. In-laws may offer to help. For example, they may offer to pay some or all of the mortgage off. If this is a sincere offer of help, then that’s a good thing.
Nonetheless, some in-laws can use finances to interfere. They may think that because they have made a payment toward the house, then they can come over any time they like. They might believe that they are entitled to have a say in how the house is run and decorated. While financial help from parents can be a welcome thing, it’s important that the underlying intentions are sincere.
If in-law interference has made your marriage unbearable, then it could be time to start looking into your legal options.