The New York Times – Well Family

My Son’s Wife Berates Him. Should I Step In?

A parent observes frequent, demeaning arguments between her son and daughter‑in‑law, often occurring when no other guests are present. The mother wonders whether to intervene, especially given the couple’s stressors such as a demanding business and the wife’s family issues. A therapist explains that the parent has been drawn into a relational triangle, where the couple uses the parent as a conduit for validation or accountability. The advice emphasizes careful boundary setting and suggests private conversation or professional mediation rather than direct confrontation.