How to Demonstrate Acceptance of Your Daughter-in-law

A Mother-in-law's Guide Toward a Good Relationship

Contrary to popular opinion, mothers-in-law are human and normally only want to see their sons settled and happy. So why is it that they have developed such a bad reputation for mistreating their daughters-in-law? A lot of it has to do with their own insecurities and jealousies as they make way for a new woman in their son's life. They want to keep hold of their son's love, affection and loyalty. They sometimes see the daughter-in-law as an intruder who will take all that away from them, rather than a person who will enrich their son's wife. It is best not to jump to conclusions right away, but start off on a positive note. Here are some ways that a mother-in-law should treat her son's new wife.

How to Demonstrate Acceptance of Your Daughter-in-law #1 Get to know her

A mother-in-law will score points if she makes a conscious effort to get to know her new daughter-in-law. If she has not already had a chance to get to know her well prior to the wedding, she can do so afterwards. Where did she grow up? Does she have any siblings? What are her interests? Some wives complain that their mother-in-law shows no personal interest in them and only ever talks about herself and her own family. But by being open and focusing more on her daughter-in-law, a mother-in-law can dispel such accusations before they have had a chance to develop.

How to Demonstrate Acceptance of Your Daughter-in-law #2 Try to get along!