How to handle entitled family members

Dealing with entitled family members (Photo: iStock)

Some people can really test you. And sadly some of them are your relatives.

Take this one who visits without prior communication expecting full board accommodation and fare back to the hole he crept out of.

Or worse still, the relative who is blessed with children but expects you to educate them without question.

Navigating relationships with entitled loved ones can present unique challenges that require a lot of self-control.

It helps to identify these culprits from a mile away.

This entitlement often manifests as an expectation of special treatment or privileges without consideration for others’ needs or feelings.

They will demand your presence, attention, resources or validation, leading to feelings of frustration or resentment.

But where does this disgusting expectation come from?

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It can stem from various factors such as upbringing, societal influences or personality traits.

Some individuals may have been raised in environments where they were constantly indulged or praised, leading to a sense of entitlement later in life.

Understanding the underlying reasons behind entitled behaviour can foster empathy and inform your approach to addressing it.

Although this may be hard, establishing boundaries is crucial when dealing with entitled family members.

Clearly communicate what behaviours are acceptable and unacceptable to you. Be firm and assertive in upholding these boundaries even if it means facing resistance or pushback from the entitled individual.

Approach conversations with empathy and openness but remain firm in your boundaries.

Listen actively and communicate your own feelings and needs calmly. Encourage respectful dialogue and seek mutual understanding. If they can’t do that, cutting off may be the right thing to do.

Tempting as it may be, refrain from enabling entitled behaviour by accommodating unreasonable demands or catering to unrealistic expectations.

Despite your numerous attempts to make them understand they don’t hold them accountable without any fear and call them out. Hopefully, this will create some self-awareness. If it doesn’t, oh well, you tried.

Dealing with entitled family members can be emotionally taxing. Consider seeking support from trusted friends, other family members or a mental health professional who can offer objective advice and emotional validation.

A therapist can provide strategies for managing difficult family dynamics and developing healthier coping mechanisms.