MIL's Plan to Make Daughter-in-Law's Family Cancel Their Vacation to Join Her Own Vacation Flops So Bad She Got More Jealous

Family vacations aren't a new concept, as people take one or more each year. It's wonderful to have everyone you love together and just have fun.

The original poster of today's story mentions that her partner goes on vacation with her parents for Christmas every other year. The OP was due to deliver during that period, so they moved the vacation to the new year.

The vacation was planned as a road trip, and they would have their own car. They would then spend a week in a mountain town at a resort through OP's parents’ timeshare.

The OP also added, saying:

SO and I would have our own living space, so we would have the necessary privacy and space required to take breaks if needed. We don’t think it will be too big of a deal because my family are SUPER flexible travelers.

You need to rest for the day? Go for it, no need to even leave the room. You want to explore the town, but everyone else wants to chill? Great, have fun and be safe! It’s too much and you want to go back before we even make it? We’ll miss you, but go home if you need to.

There were no restrictions whatsoever, but then her MIL intervened, wanting them to cancel their plans and join her in Hawaii instead. Well, that wasn't happening, and you can find the reason by reading the full story below.

OP writes

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They would have the necessary privacy and space required to take breaks if needed

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They were all exhausted by the time they got back because of her controlling, high-strung way of vacationing

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The Psychology of Family Dynamics

Family relationships often involve complex power dynamics that can lead to conflict. Research in family psychology suggests that these dynamics are influenced by individual roles and expectations within the family unit.

In this case, the mother-in-law's attempt to manipulate plans may stem from a desire for control or fear of being sidelined, which can create tension in family interactions.

She said that they could split the price of everything and “share kids”

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OP and her partner had already decided that they didn’t like the idea

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OP added an edit later on saying:

We can absolutely cancel on my parents last minute. We would be taking our own car, and their timeshare condo does not change regardless of us going or missing, so there would be no consequence, financially or otherwise, to us deciding to stay home.We also fully plan on talking to the baby's doctor and my doctor before doing either vacation. We're just waiting until October-ish so we can have a better idea on vaccinations/restrictions/travel bans associated with the places we go. If either doctor recommends against it, we won't go.

We've gathered a bunch of the topmost comments for you to read through below

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Manipulative behaviors can also reflect deeper psychological needs. As noted by Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, "People often resort to manipulation when they feel insecure or threatened in their relationships." Understanding these motivations can help family members navigate conflicts with greater empathy, as Dr. Durvasula emphasizes the importance of recognizing underlying emotions in interpersonal dynamics.

He was amazing, but this Redditor was exhausted

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He couldn't hold his head up

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Traveling with a newborn, whether by car or plane, sounds exhausting

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Effective Communication Strategies in Families

To address manipulative behaviors within family dynamics, open and honest communication is essential. Research indicates that assertive communication can help clarify intentions and reduce misunderstandings.

In this situation, the daughter-in-law might benefit from expressing her feelings directly to her mother-in-law, setting boundaries while maintaining respect.

This line alone would make this Redditor shut her down

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Telling the MIL no trip can be planned

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Who wants to do this?

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The Role of Empathy in Conflict Resolution

Empathy plays a vital role in resolving family conflicts. Studies have shown that practicing empathy can facilitate understanding and reduce defensiveness in family interactions.

By striving to understand the motivations behind the mother-in-law's actions, the daughter-in-law can approach the situation with compassion, reducing tension.

Some Redditors were of the opinion that flying with a young child is difficult and, at times, unbearable. Some even advised her to cancel the trip, as it may be too early for her to take one since she just delivered.

Drop your own advice for the OP in the comments section below, and don't forget to share this post as well.

Psychological Analysis

This scenario highlights the intricacies of family interactions, particularly regarding control and manipulation. Understanding the psychological factors at play can empower family members to address conflicts more constructively and empathetically.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Ultimately, navigating family dynamics requires patience, empathy, and effective communication skills. By fostering open dialogue and understanding, family members can work towards resolving conflicts while maintaining their relationships.