- 1. Pro: Building a positive relationship with in-laws can enhance family harmony and provide a supportive extended family network.
Psychology Today: [Building In-Law Relationships]
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/conscious-communication/201809/improving-relationships-with-your-in-laws - 2. Con: Forcing a close relationship can lead to discomfort and strained interactions if there are fundamental differences.
Verywell Family: [Challenges with InLaws]
https://maplewoodcounseling.com/problems-with-in-laws/ - 3. Unsure: Establishing respectful and polite interactions while maintaining personal boundaries can create a balanced relationship.
The Gottman Institute: [Balancing In-Law Relationships]
https://www.gottman.com/blog/are-you-losing-you-in-the-relationship-enmeshment-detachment-and-differentiation/ - 4. Pro: A good relationship with in-laws can positively impact your marriage and provide additional support for your partner.
Marriage.com: [Impact of In-Law Relationships]
https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/how-to-manage-your-relationship-with-in-laws/ - 5. Con: Differences in values, beliefs, or lifestyles can make it difficult to connect with in-laws on a deeper level.
Harvard Business Review: [Navigating Value Differences]
https://www.marriagehint.com/living-with-in-laws/ - 6. Unsure: Taking small steps to find common interests and gradually building the relationship can reduce pressure and create genuine connections.
BetterHelp: [Building Relationships Gradually]
https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/love/trust-and-expectations-you-always-hurt-the-one-you-love/ - 7. Pro: Developing a relationship with in-laws can provide valuable insights into your partner’s background and family dynamics.
Psychology Today: [Understanding Family Dynamics]
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/family-dynamics - 8. Con: Prior negative experiences or conflicts can make it challenging to trust or invest in a relationship with in-laws
Verywell Mind: [Dealing with Trust Issues]
https://www.verywellmind.com/why-you-may-have-trust-issues-and-how-to-overcome-them-5215390 - 9. Unsure: Seeking advice from your partner on how to approach their family can provide helpful insights and show your willingness to try.
Marriage.com: [Communicating About InLaws]
https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/how-your-relationship-with-your-in-laws-affects-your-marriage/
EVIDENCE SOURCES
Click these links to explore
the PROs, CONs, and UNSURE evidence for each topic