Gain Insight: Trying To Get Along With Mother-in-Law
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Pat Palmeri of Insight Counseling is here to answer your questions. Use the form below to ask the therapist.
Dear Pat
I have done everything I can think of to win my mother-in-law over. Her son and I have been married for almost 7 years and it seems that nothing I do makes this woman happy. I try to invite her out to lunch and call her. She refuses and more often than not, just flat out ignores me. What can I do to fix this? She is a great woman and I look up to her. Maybe she wishes that I was her son’s ex-wife but I’m not her. Please help me!!
Anne
Dear Anne,
You might ask her what her problem is with you. If she refuses to answer or responds in a sarcastic/hateful manner then stop. If she states she has no idea what you’re talking about then explain it to her in a non judgmental manner. Rehearse all possible responses in year head or in front of a mirror prior to bringing the subject up to her and be prepared for any response as best you can. This prepares you to respond without over reacting to anything this woman may say to you. Your over-reaction to her negativity could jeopardize what you are trying to accomplish. After you have done all you can to resolve this it is no longer your problem. You can’t fix anything like this by yourself. It will take the two of you to do it.
Patricia Palmeri, MA, LPC
Psychotherapist
