What To Do When Your Parents Hate Your Girlfriend

5 Things You Need To Do If Your Parents Hate Your Significant Other

For many young people, introducing a significant other to their parents is a huge sign that they're ready to take things to the next level. This is a major source of unease for all parties involved. When things go well, there are fireworks, but when things don't, breaking up a budding couple can be awkward. I made this list of what to do if your family doesn't like your significant other because, let's be honest, there aren't enough advice columns in the world that can truly describe how uncomfortable this situation can be.

Find Common Ground

Rather than racking your brains trying to get your family to enjoy your significant other's company, find ways to make it easy for everyone. Find some intersection between your parents' interests and your significant other's. Maybe it’s pottery making, maybe it’s Nazca; maybe it’s. Whatever the common ground is, it at least gives everyone involved in the situation a chance to talk about something they both enjoy. This may not mean your partner and your parents will always get along, but it at least means having a backup dinner topic in case things get silent and awkward.

Don't Force It

Perhaps one of the most important pieces of advice on this list is not to force your partner to spend time with your parents. If they don't get along, being sensitive about it is key. If you try to force everyone to get along, they'll end up resenting you for it, and they'll end up resenting each other even more. If your parents don't get along with your significant other, take a step back and try to understand why rather than trying to force them to be in the same room together.

Keep It Casual

When your significant other is with your parents, make sure neither one feels backed into a corner. If you arrange a road trip together, remember that no one has an escape route. Sometimes it's easier when people are together without the added stress of a holiday or a big event. No one likes to be stuck in a situation they hate, and people tend to lash out when they feel they're being forced into a situation they don't like.

Realize It Doesn't Matter

At the end of the day, it's important to realize that although your significant other may hate your parents and vice versa, it doesn't matter. What matters is that you are happy, healthy, and content in your relationship. If your partner is causing extreme tension in your relationship with your parents, ask yourself if it's worth the trouble. If you conclude that they just don't like the person who makes you happy for superficial reasons, rest assured that it's your life, not theirs.

Talk To Your Parents

Parents are a lot smarter than we give them credit for, which is why I recommend asking them why they hate your significant other. Even if you don't like what they have to say, at least respect them enough to give them a chance to explain themselves. You might be surprised to find that they have opinions about your catcalls that you weren't aware of before. Don't worry if they don't, but at least you know you gave them a chance to express peace. Many times, parents just want to put it into words. By giving them a chance to explain what they think is best for you, you're acknowledging that they probably care about you more than you think; regardless, it's a really good feeling to know you're so loved.