Homophobic MIL Says She's Going To Cast A Spell On Her Son And His Boyfriend To Make Them Straight
"She'll be sacrificing a chicken on your doorstep soon enough."
Homophobia is sadly something many members of the LGBTQIA+ community still have to deal with daily. For some, the worst kind of homophobic behavior comes from their own family members.
Reddit user u/LimePopcorn shared a story in the r/JUSTNOMIL subreddit about his misbehaving mother-in-law (MIL). The OP explained that one of his colleagues asked him to babysit his six-year-old daughter.
The OP says he's not the best with kids, but his boyfriend is great with them, so he agreed. The Redditor's boyfriend was doing a fantastic job of entertaining the little girl when the doorbell rang.
When the OP opened the door, it was his MIL. The Redditor went outside and told his MIL that they didn't have time for her right now, as they were babysitting.
The OP's MIL was shocked, saying, "What kind of idiotic parents allowed a f***** to babysit their child?" She said she would call the police, so the OP reminded her that he was a police officer.
The OP told her that babysitting isn't a crime, but she said, "It is when f*****s do it." The OP closed the door in his MIL's face, and not long after, the little girl's parents arrived to collect her.
The following day, the OP's colleague told him that his MIL had approached him and his wife as they were leaving and told them they were irresponsible parents for leaving their child with a gay couple. The OP was mortified by his MIL's behavior and apologized to his colleague.
To top it all off, the OP's MIL called her son to tell him that she was going to have a sorcerer put a spell on them to make them straight. Keep scrolling to see how the people of Reddit reacted.
Following on from previous posts, the OP continued about his MIL.
Reddit/LimePopcornHe explained that he was asked to babysit by a colleague from work.
Reddit/LimePopcornWhile the OP and his boyfriend were babysitting, the OP's MIL turned up unexpectedly.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
Understanding the Psychology of Homophobia
Homophobia can often stem from deeply ingrained societal beliefs and personal insecurities. According to research by Dr. Gregory Herek, a prominent psychologist specializing in sexual orientation, individuals who exhibit homophobic behavior may be grappling with their insecurities or internalized fears about their own sexual identity. This defense mechanism serves to protect their self-image but often manifests in harmful ways toward others.
In this case, the mother-in-law's claim about casting a spell reflects a misunderstanding of her son's identity and a desperate attempt to exert control over a situation that feels threatening to her beliefs.
The OP told his MIL they were busy babysitting and didn't have time for her right now.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
The OP's MIL was shocked that someone would allow a gay couple to babysit their child.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
She said they were "probably teaching that child to be gay."
Reddit/LimePopcorn
A social psychologist notes that individuals who express homophobic attitudes often do so in an attempt to align themselves with traditional norms. Research shows that societal pressures can lead individuals to adopt rigid beliefs about gender and sexuality, which can perpetuate discrimination and conflict. In the OP's scenario, the mother-in-law's behavior could be seen as a reflection of her struggle to reconcile her beliefs with her son's reality.
The Redditor closed the door in his MIL's face.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
She even went as far as to harass the little girl's parents as they were collecting her.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
The OP was embarrassed and apologized to his colleague.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
The Impact of Familial Acceptance
Familial acceptance plays a crucial role in the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. Studies suggest that when families express acceptance, it can significantly reduce mental health issues and increase overall life satisfaction. Dr. Caitlin Ryan, a leading researcher on LGBTQ+ youth, has found that supportive family environments foster resilience and a strong sense of self-identity.
In contrast, rejection or hostility from family members can have devastating effects, including increased rates of depression and anxiety among LGBTQ+ individuals. The OP's experience highlights the importance of acceptance within familial relationships.
He was ashamed that his MIL would be so awful.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
Later, the OP's MIL called her son and told him she was going to have a sorcerer cast a spell to stop him from being gay.
Reddit/LimePopcorn
Here's how people reacted.
Reddit/Llogical_Llama
To address the situation constructively, the OP might consider engaging in a calm conversation with his mother-in-law about her feelings. Using educational resources about LGBTQ+ issues could help bridge the gap in understanding. For instance, the OP could share information about the importance of acceptance and the impact of rejection on mental health, fostering a dialogue aimed at education rather than confrontation.
"The woman needs to be committed."
Reddit/JaxLibra
"May want to drop an anonymous email to her priest."
Reddit/Shanisasha
Uno!
Reddit/BWASB
"A damn shame."
Reddit/bananamana55
Has she even read the Bible?
Reddit/preciousjewel128
"Magic is not to be f****d with!"
Reddit/MissMariemayI
Okay, but she "created" a gay child, so...
Reddit/AcidRose27
She's delusional!
Reddit/TitsBeTinder
"It's all magic up in here!"
Reddit/Urechi
What are your thoughts on this situation? And how do you think the OP should deal with his MIL?
It's incredibly sad that homophobia still exists in today's society. But it's great that people like the OP and his colleague are able to make light of situations like these.
We would love to hear your opinions on this. You can share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
Psychological Analysis
This situation illustrates the complexities surrounding family acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities. It's essential for individuals to address these issues openly, as dialogue can be a powerful tool for fostering understanding. Engaging with family members about their beliefs can lead to positive change and improved familial relationships.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Research supports the notion that familial acceptance is crucial for the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. Addressing homophobic attitudes within families can lead to healthier relationships and improved mental health outcomes. As emphasized in psychological literature, open dialogue and education can facilitate understanding and acceptance.
