My long-distance boyfriend is coming to town soon, and I’m unsure how to introduce him to my family. We’ve been together for two months, but we’ve already started planning shared events ahead, so what I’m talking about is multiple months away as of right now.
My mom (52F) is planning a family dinner and has invited my boyfriend, which could make things uncomfortable. I’m worried about how my boyfriend will be treated or what might be said in front of him, especially about my health and past issues. (This is unavoidable, unlike my stepmom and dad. It’s for a holiday.)
My mom delights in making fun of me, it’s like I’m the dinner table entertainment. She overshares things I’ve told her in confidence and has embarrassed me more times than I can count.
My dad and stepmom (both 53) are emotionally abusive and openly bigoted. They’ve already made comments about my boyfriend being “soft” and “too liberal.” They also just enjoy insulting me, and think my boyfriend’s too good for me. I usually avoid them, but I’d still like my dad to meet him, even if just briefly.
How can I approach this situation and set boundaries without causing a bigger issue? If anything needs to be clarified I shall do so.
TLDR: My parents love to talk shit on me, and all three want to meet my boyfriend in the fall. NEED HELP!!
Comments
Ok I see what’s going on, they have little class and say whatever they want. Get with your boyfriend. Let him know to pay attention to yur signals. 1, Avoid dinner, make an excuse. make it a cup of coffee or just stopping by to say hi. 2. If that isn’t possible, come late to dinner. Since your mom is so open about everything you can say “gosh mom you know my stomach is so sensitive – I got to go, my stomach really hurts, I have to walk outside for a bit. And then go. 3. the mistake I made and young people like you also make – we think we have to sit thru the whole thing – not true. You can get an important call, have the train be late, the car break down, his uncle in Miami calling, remember you forgot your wallet at the last store – or if all else fails, break out with an asthma attack or twist your ankle – possibilities are endless – contact me if you need more suggestions