30 Bizarre House Rules People Had To Follow At A Friend's Or Relative's House

"They had toilet paper outside the bathroom. If you had to pee, you could take 1 piece. If you had to poop, you got 5. Nothing more." This was one of the 4.2k responses to a r/AskReddit question.

The curious user wanted to know what strange rules people had to follow at a friend's or relative's house. While some responses had me itching to dial the authorities, most were simply bizarre.

As kids, it was typical for some of us to visit each other's houses. Those visits to our friends' or cousins' homes were our introduction to people's different ways of running their households.

It was where I learned that some people only drank room-temperature water, while our family favored chilled beverages. We were taught to be polite and respect the homeowner's rules as long as we were under their roof.

However, if a rule seemed unfair or ridiculous, we were warned not to return to the house again. The answers to "What was the strangest rule you had to follow when at a friend’s house?" fell solidly into the ridiculous rule category.

Some of these rules were so far from the norm that even kids questioned their validity. Warning: some of these answers are stomach-turning due to their abusive themes and outright grossness.

1. The dad who forced his family and his children's friends to be night owls because he worked nights.

Select_Locksmith5894

2. He who controls dinner time wields power, or something more patriarchal.

4-stars

The Dynamics of House Rules

House rules often reflect deeper family values and cultural norms, influencing how family members interact. Research from the University of Minnesota suggests that such rules can create a sense of order and predictability within family systems, which is crucial for children’s emotional development.

However, overly rigid or unusual rules can lead to confusion and resentment, especially among guests or younger family members.

3. Does the obsession extend to their lawn mower?

castironskilletmilk

4. That's how you attract bears.

SketchAinsworth

This situation highlights how differing expectations can create tension within family dynamics. According to studies in family psychology, children who feel their needs are not understood or respected may struggle with self-esteem and emotional regulation.

Helping children navigate these complex interactions is vital for their emotional growth and understanding of social norms.

5. If only they helped Mom clean, they could have been upstairs people, too.

Navyblazers2000

6. "I'm whispering, 'coz I'm a singer." -Sabrina Carpenter, probably.

Soft_Whisperxo

Understanding the Function of Unusual Rules

Unusual house rules often serve as coping mechanisms for families dealing with underlying issues. Research indicates that such rules can stem from a desire to create control in chaotic environments, reflecting deeper psychological needs.

In this case, the unique rule about the pronunciation of 'tortilla chips' might serve to reinforce a sense of belonging and identity within the household.

7. Math? Before I've had my coffee? Rude!

LawfulAwfulOffal

8. At no cost should this dad and that other dad meet. Their evil would create a rift in the universe.

Royalchariot

To navigate the complexities of house rules, it's beneficial for families to engage in discussions about the rationale behind these rules. Encouraging an open dialogue can help guests and family members understand the values that underpin these rules, fostering greater respect and alignment.

Flexibility in adapting rules to accommodate guests can also promote inclusivity and understanding.

9. Another contender for the patriarch of the dinner table. Does this title come with a crown or something?

meyou2478998

10. Finally, a wholesome rule to break all the bleak sexist energy!

Apprehensive_Crow329

The Importance of Empathy in Family Interactions

Empathy plays a critical role in managing family dynamics, especially in situations where rules may seem arbitrary to outsiders. Research from the Journal of Applied Psychology indicates that empathetic communication can significantly improve family relationships.

Practicing empathy allows family members to understand each other's perspectives and needs, leading to healthier interactions and emotional support.

11. What happened for them to make that a rule?

WoolaTheCalot

12. Why did "kerplunk" have to be too onomatopoeic?

ChippyVonMaker

Not all homes are built equally, as some are more... quirky than others. The abuela who made her grandkids' friends food and talked to them as they ate before they played was the story I chose to remember.

Some of the other answers were too horrifying to even think about. If you had to stay overnight in any of those homes, apart from the abuela's house, the Glee alternate universe, or the magical snack closet, which house would you choose?

13. A former fire squid turned Good Place architect designed the house.

GrandeCappuccino

14. She did say nice, not kind.

emmascarlett899

15. They were reserved for a religious leader or a monarch, weren't they?

ChrisTRD289

16. Maybe your mom was also scared of her.

Boonie_Fluff

17. Pretty sure this was a TV show. Only it was set in a random high school.

SuperBaby_Emma

18. People have strong feelings about their beverages.

boo99boo

19. I'll take a thin blanket any time over this.

Empty401K

20. What a way to end this anecdote.

pmmeweirdal

21. What was the reason? Did they ever have soup?

One_Dog_Two_Tricks

22. That's one way to get a break from your kids.

caffinated-anxious

23. Was the girlfriend as frugal as her father?

LT_Dan78

24. They were workshopping their cult.

Heauregard

25. "MIL, def not a friend." LMAO

FinanciallySecure9

26. Family traditions do make holidays special.

spatulacitymanager

27. Ah, the rule was racism.

Slight_Literature_67

28. They were THE hangout spot.

ocean_flan

29. Too many feelings over a remote. Sorry. "Thingamajig."

NikkoE82

30. You can never be too vigilant, they say.

Effective_Spite_117, Never_a_crumb

Psychological Analysis

This situation underscores the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of house rules on relationships. Encouraging open communication about the reasons behind these rules can help build understanding and respect among family members.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, navigating house rules requires an understanding of the underlying values and dynamics at play within families. Psychological research supports the idea that empathy and open communication are essential for fostering healthy relationships in any family setting.