Share
The holiday season should be a time forfamily, friends, food and fun.
But it can also mean added stress and, of course, some epic familydrama.
22% of Americanspolledin a recent survey said they anticipate conflict with relatives at this time of year.
Shed also invited her sister-in-law, along with her husband and their three kids.
The woman wasnt expecting her husbands parents and two others to rock up unannounced for a surprise visit.
When she told them they couldnt stay, her hubby was not impressed.
Its closely followed by family dynamics and past grievances, as well as relationships and finances.
The emotional intensity of the holidays amplifies these situations, turning temporary disagreements into lasting decisions.
Barbo adds that theres an unexpected silver lining.
A separate recent poll of more than 1,000 Americansfoundthat39% haveskippedholiday gatherings previously, to avoid complicated situations.
12% are planning to do so this year.
Nearly 2 in 5 of those surveyed said being in a relationship has made the holidays more complicated.
Nearly 10% even report crying over the stress of spending the holidays with their partners parents.
Just under a quarter of respondents said holiday plans cause tension between them and their partners.
The main arguments revolve around dealing with family dynamics, splitting time between families and financial strain.
This can help to breaktensionand avoid arguments.
Dalgleish adds that its important for couples to be on the same page ahead of the holidays.
This can create conflict, as expectations between partners are not being clearly shared and identified.
Setting boundaries is also crucial, but Dalgleish says the action and follow-through matters the most.
After all, you cant control someone elses actions.
But you’re free to control your own reaction.
Check out the results:
