Share strategies for maintaining individual identities, hobbies, and friendships while nurturing relationships. Underline the importance of prioritizing marriage to avoid in-law conflicts. Couples must find a balance and establish rules to resolve family interactions. Having strategies in place to protect the marriage from toxicity is essential.  Effective communication between couples, presenting a united front, is a critical factor in maintaining healthy relationships among loved ones and family dynamics. 

A widespread problem among couples is not setting boundaries with each other’s families. Setting boundaries with extended family can be challenging but essential for your well-being.  Here are some steps to setting boundaries with extended families: Determine specific behaviors or interactions with extended family members that cause stress or discomfort. Be assertive and communicate privately to talk openly with an extended family member. Once the boundaries are established, implement them consistently. Seek support from a therapist, counselor, professional, or trusted friend for guidance and encouragement.  Periodically, reassess the boundaries established to adjust as needed.

[1] Julie E. Artis, and Martha A. Martinez, “Cohabitation, Marriage and Relationships with Parents-in-Law.’” Families, Relationships and Societies 5, no. 1 (2016): 19.