Among all the varied relationships we have in our lives, in-laws must be among the most perplexing. They get to enjoy all the status of family even though they aren't yours. Many people, of course, have warm, enjoyable relationships with their in-laws, but just as many seem to harbor horror stories. As senior reporter Allie Volpe reports for the June issue of The Highlight, many of our hang-ups about in-laws stem from cultural stereotypes. The mother-in-law, in particular, is the subject of cruel caricature — painted as overbearing and meddlesome in pop culture, complained about endlessly on Reddit.
So how do you have a good-enough relationship with your in-laws? What do you owe them? And what's the best way to negotiate boundaries if you feel like your in-laws are encroaching in unwelcome ways? Allie blends her usual sharp reporting and analysis about life's big questions with practical advice you can implement in your own life.
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—Naureen Khan, senior editor
