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Parents of adult children

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How do parents handle disliking an adult child’s controlling partner?

2 replies

FrenchandSaunders · 03/06/2026 15:51

What do you do when you just don't like their partner ... you can see they're manipulative and have told lies in the past to get what they want. Very controlling.

DC has been told this by family and friends and distanced themselves for a while from the relationship but is now back in the thick of it.

I've backed off as I've said what I think, they're an adult, and I don't want to damage my relationship with them ... however I find it very difficult to sit and have family meals, drinks out etc as though everything is ok.

I dislike very few people, both DH and I are very chilled, try hard to see the best in people, and have welcomed this person into our lives and included them. But there's a line, it's very difficult.

OP posts:
Sparrowsandbudgies · 03/06/2026 15:53

I’ve been the adult child in this situation. You shouldn’t cause any issues as you’ll just push them further towards the partner. Smile and nod and let them get on with it. If they’re intelligent and know they have your unconditional support they’ll eventually dump the partner - that’s what I did anyway. Obviously that doesn’t always happen but it’s much easier if you keep the lines of communication open with them and don’t judge etc.

FrenchandSaunders · 04/06/2026 09:43

Thanks for your reply, I'm glad you realised and got out of it.

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