Like them, love them, or hate them, in-laws are notorious for driving their relatives insane. Some even seem to make it their mission to consistently meddle in our marriages, offer fresh and uninvited perspectives, and never pass up an opportunity to remind us of just how wrong we are about basically anything in life. And often, these people will be in your life for a long time, whether you can stand the sight and sound of them or not.
Mothers-in-law particularly catch the heat (sometimes rightfully so!) from negative media tropes and cultural stereotypes about being judgy, overbearing, and quite frankly, horrible. However, the other part of the equation often gets overlooked. So how about we balance out the scales a bit?
Today, we're taking a deep dive into the world of fathers-in-law who left their relatives speechless by being their most infuriating, obnoxious, and annoying selves. We at Bored Panda compiled a list of times people called out their partner's dads for all the nonsensical things they've done, so pull your seat closer! Upvote the pics that angered you most, be sure to share your own unpleasant encounters below in the comments, and don’t miss the chat we had about in-law relationships with psychologist and relationship coach Dr. Wyatt Fisher.
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The State Of The World
Father-In-Law Doing Something Disgusting
My FIL (Who's Extremely Right) Strikes Again
It’s hardly surprising that in-law relationships can be complicated (to say the least!), as these people are usually thrust into your life without much thought or agreement on how things should be handled.
Of course, in some rare instances, the trope of in-law conflict may seem to be blown out of proportion. But the stereotypically bad relationships with their partner’s family are very real issues for some. After all, being forced into new family dynamics often creates relationships that are tense at best and toxic at worst.
Navigating through the complex dynamics of the bond we have with our fathers-in-law is a tricky matter of business, as there’s no guidebook or manual to tell us how everything is supposed to go. Some people are lucky enough to call them "dad." Others, as the examples in this compiled homage to the most irritating FILs out there show, would rather fake an emergency than spend one second alone in a room with them.
Just My Racist FIL Being My Racist FIL. The Person Arguing Is Me, His Half-Mexican Descent Daughter-In-Law
My Poor Father-In-Law Never Saw It Coming. Rest In Peace
The Back Window Of My Father-In-Law's Van
That guy is definitely a major creep who I'm sure is hiding some sketchy stuff.
To gain more insight on the topic from an expert, we reached out to Dr. Wyatt Fisher, a licensed psychologist specializing in couples counseling in Boulder, CO. As Dr. Fisher provides relationship coach training and shares illuminating insights on his Relationships & Marriage podcast, he was more than happy to share his thoughts on the matter.
Dr. Fisher told Bored Panda there are many common complaints with FILs that can put a strain on the relationship and, consequently, your well-being. "Problems with fathers-in-law can range from not receiving their approval if you're a male to feeling like they are sexually inappropriate if you're a female," the psychologist explained.
My Sister's Father-In-Law, Who Is A Very Conservative Trump Supporter, Was Not Happy That She Bought Her Son A Baby Doll For Christmas
My nephew has several baby dolls, and it's insanely adorable watching how tenderly he takes care of them. In fact I'm told when he was given his first one at the age of about two he instantly rushed over and hugged it! One reason why I keep saying he'll make an awesome big brother one day. <3
I wish more boys played with dolls. If you notice the high amount of child abuse or killing is generally young men. Girls are given dolls and they learn that you need to be gentle. These twenty something young dads get mad and don't know to put the baby safely down and go outside for a few minutes. No baby has ever died from crying.
My son wanted a Baby Alive when he was about 4. I got him one for christmas. He played with it for awhile, then lost interest. As an adult, my son is the best dad..he changed diapers, did all the things moms do, is there for his kids always and has a beautiful wife. The doll...meh, just another toy when he was a kid.
Did you mean Irma Gerd? The Canadian Drag Queen ❤️
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I will never understand that retrograde way of thinking... I'm F, and I LOVED to play with trains, Scalextric, building blocks, playing football with my cousins and even my grandparents didn't have a problem with that. For context, I'm an adult so I'm talking about +25 years ago. This man's attitude boggles my mind
Right! I played with Legos, hot wheels, and video games as a child and nobody batted an eye. But a boy picks up a Barbie and it's like they've touched something radioactive.
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I have one of the boys...he is a great husband and father 😊
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Sounds like my daughter's fiance. I bought a few dolls for my two grandsons to play with here. They both loved them. I sent my daughter a photo of them putting the dolls to bed and she replied cute! Next day when she came inside she told me that he was furious that his boys were playing with boys. Boys are supposed to be playing with cars not dolls. I went outside where he was waiting in the car and told him that when at my home they could play with any toys they want, whether it's cars or dolls. Stop it with gender toys. Toys are genderless
It’s a baby doll. Toys aren’t gendered. The opposite is true, boys playing with baby dolls encourages nurturing skills that will be essential if he decides to have kids one day or if he becomes a big brother/decides to get a job involving working with kids like a pediatrician or a teacher
Tell me you never did any childcare because “that $***s for wimmin”, without flat out saying it.
My ex husband threw a fit when our youngest got a cabbage patch doll he wanted for Christmas one year. He was 4 and is now 28. It has absolutely nothing to do with Trump or politics.
It’s a wonderful way to raise an empathetic caring human. I wish the FIL had been raised better.
I bought my son a Barbie when he was little and my FIL was furious. I asked him... You'd rather him sleep with Barbie or GI Joe? (No offense to boy who wants to sleep with gi joe)!
little brother had a baby doll bout 2 years ago and still sleeps next to it. her name is coco *lowers shades to look you dead in the eyes* Which is short for Chocolate by the way,
Boys - and girls, for that matter - should play with whatever toys make them happy.
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Show Me A More Manly Thing Than My Father-In-Law Doing The Laundry. I'll Wait
Got A New Couch Delivered Today. Father-In-Law Decided To Test It Out
According to Fatherly’s 2016 survey, women are more likely (about 16% more than men) to feel a sense of dread when they have to hang out with their in-laws. Interestingly, when it comes to the disagreements people who are parents have with their partner’s family, only 38% admitted they don’t argue. The rest explained that the cause of disagreements is usually their parenting style (29%), politics (15%), money (14%), and career success (4%).
How My In-Laws Park Everywhere They Go
Perhaps give them a kids' coloring book for christmas so they can learn to stay within the lines?
These Things In My Father-In-Law's Car Are So He And His Partner Can Drive Without Seatbelts And The Car Won't Make The Alarm Sounds
My Father-In-Law Responds To A Picture Of Our Trans Foster Daughter
I don't think this father-in-law understand the concept of 'grace'.
When asked about the reasons we often find it hard to grasp the complexities of this relationship, Dr. Fisher explained we often see them as difficult and complicated because it’s not discussed as often. "Therefore, there aren't as many resources for support and tips."
"Also, many people have had turbulent relationships with their own fathers, so it can make it even tougher to build a connection with their father-in-law because there's no model for fatherly closeness to fall back on," Dr. Fisher added.
When My FIL Last Visited, He Ended Up Shouting And Swearing At Me In Front Of My Toddler Because I Called Out His Homophobia And This Exchange Happened The Day After
Great job!! Everybody should love who they want to love. I don't understand what anyone does in their lives is other people's business. I judge folks for who I see standing in front of me. I don't care who you are with, sleeping, living etc... Why do you care about other folks lives??
Twice A Year, My In-Laws Stay With Us For About A Week. Twice A Year, I Have To Replace All My Nonstick Cookware
Don't. Keep one of the ruined sets in a box under a bed, and bring it out when they arrive. Put it away when they leave.
How My In-Laws Eat Assorted Cheesecake
2 things! Firstly, there is not a jury in the world that would find you guilty if you did something about that. Secondly, how do I find somewhere that sells cheesecake like that? [edit: I live in the UK and have NEVER seen cheesecake sold like that!]
If you’re like most people, you know what a struggle your own family can be. But you’ve been dealing with them your whole life, and you’re likely to share common interests and agree with (at least some of) their thoughts.
With your in-laws, it’s not always clear what you're allowed to say and how you're expected to behave. As there’s less of an overlap in common agreement with them, you may find yourself saying the wrong thing and sparking a conflict. The other choice is to stay silent and feel the resentment slowly growing inside. And, of course, vent your frustrations by complaining about them online.
My Very Tech Challenged Father-In-Law Sent The Entire Family A Picture Of His Breakfast This Morning. That Photo Had A Watermark
Ladies And Gentlemen, My Father-In-Law
Made Quesadillas, Father-In-Law Walked Into Kitchen, Took A Big Bite Out Of One, Walked Into The Bathroom. Walked Out And Took A Big Bite Out Of A Different One
As we enter the holiday season, a time dedicated to spending time with our loved ones and being thankful for being together, many of us inevitably arm ourselves with patience as in-laws are bound to drag us into their dramas. So how are we supposed to handle infuriating FILs when we’re thrown together for an extended period of time with nowhere to run?
Dr. Fisher advised that the best course of action is to have an honest conversation with your other half. "First, let your partner confront their difficult behaviors instead of you. Second, ask your partner how to respond to your father-in-law if they aren't around. Third, pick your battles."
"You're most likely not going to change your father-in-law so try your best to accept them as they are as long as they aren't mistreating you," the psychologist suggested.
Once Again. Another Gem From My Father-In-Law. And He Even Got 3 Shares This Time
FIL Started A Tattoo On Me 4 Weeks Ago. He Sold His Equipment 2 Days Ago
How My Father-In-Law Lets The Candles Burn
But as many people know from practice, the turbulent bond you have with your FIL can drastically affect your relationship. Dr. Fisher agreed with this line of thinking and explained that things particularly tend to go sour when your spouse ignores or disagrees with your feelings.
"If you have a difficult relationship with your father-in-law and your partner doesn't have your back, it can quickly strain your relationship with your partner because you'll feel vulnerable and defenseless," he said.
I Sent My Future Father-In-Law A Linking Puzzle For Christmas. He Just Sent My Fiance This Picture Showing How He Solved It
My Father-In-Law's Remote Is But A Small Glimpse Into How Infuriated I Become When I Visit My In-Laws' House. No Excuse Is Good Enough
Told My Father-In-Law I Pulled A Muscle At The Gym, He Said A Little Of This Will Make Me Feel Better
If you find yourself struggling with similar situations, Dr. Fisher suggested that sometimes, you just have to draw the line. "You have to set hard boundaries with inappropriate or difficult in-laws."
"However, other times people tend to overreact to behaviors that really aren't that big of a deal in the grand scheme of things. Keep things in perspective and make sure your partner has your back and let them do the boundary setting, not you," Dr. Fisher concluded.
This Is How My Father-In-Law Gets Butter For His Toast
My Father-In-Law Said There Is A Park On The Apartment Complex For The Kids To Play. This Is The Park
I’m Totally Middle-Of-The-Road, Non-Political And He Thinks It Means I Voted For Trump. Anyways, Here Are My Texts After A Night He Was Drinking
My father-in-law is on the other side of the spectrum.
Father-In-Law Drives Through Front Lawn To Avoid Backing Up
From My Father-In-Law. I Don't Even Know What To Say About This One
Hmm, I dunno. Some people who think like this would be okay with the idea if it were their favoured politician running a global government.
Ladies And Gentlemen, My Father-In-Law
My Father-In-Law's Toothbrush. Those Brown Bits Are Some Kind Of Mouldy Cereal
Father-In-Law Text Me This While I Was Volunteering In Buffalo
My Father-In-Law And The Remnants Of His Weekly Visit
My Father-In-Law Always Posts Things Like This, Christmas Is Going To Be So Fun
My Cousin's Father-In-Law's Ladder Arrangements
I've seen worse, by tradesmen scaffolders. As long as they're anchored & tied together properly (which they must be: look at the physics of the ladders. They HAVE to be tied to hold each other that way), there's nothing wrong besides no (visible) fall-protection harness & lanyard.
My Father-In-Law, Helping To Foster Productive Discourse
My Father-In-Law's Response To Me And My Pregnant Fiancée Decisions To Not See Them Due To Corona
Well he wasn’t wrong with the last statement, he just greatly understated its severity
How My Soon-To-Be Father-In-Law Opens The Milk Carton
My Father-In-Law Ladies And Gentlemen
Honestly, sounds like OP is gaining if he never has to interact with his FIL ever again
How My Father-In-Law Stores His Knives
Huh, I have that exact same bread knife. Which I keep stored in a knife block like a sensible person, thankyouverymuch!
Note: this post originally had 42 images. It’s been shortened to the top 40 images based on user votes.
Just because there's some shared DNA somewhere, doesn't mean you have to have a relationship with people. If they're disrespectful jerks, cut them loose.
That’s true but you have to also consider the link - your partner. You can’t force them to cut contact with their family. So often it means you can be stuck :-(
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Some of these are quite petty to be honest. Untidy draws, overstating what constitutes a playground, disagreeing on how much isolation makes sense for the virus while not denying it's existence or the other person's right to isolate, I mean come on, are we just out to hate and be intolerable of everything?
My father-in-law beats his wives and can't hold down a job. Haven't seen or heard from him in 28 years and don't care to see him anytime soon.
My first FIL was a great man, and after I divorced his less than great son, I missed Dad a lot. He wanted nothing more to do with me for at least a year, though, because I'd hurt him so badly by divorcing---until he finally and actually came to understand what kind of monster his son was. We got along just fine after that, thankfully, because my son sure wanted to be around his Granpa D.
A ton of virtual signaling in this "article" more than half of it just sounds made up. But a lot of stuff presented by bored panda is just virtual signaling and more often than not it's just B.S.
Just because there's some shared DNA somewhere, doesn't mean you have to have a relationship with people. If they're disrespectful jerks, cut them loose.
That’s true but you have to also consider the link - your partner. You can’t force them to cut contact with their family. So often it means you can be stuck :-(
Load More Replies... Some of these are quite petty to be honest. Untidy draws, overstating what constitutes a playground, disagreeing on how much isolation makes sense for the virus while not denying it's existence or the other person's right to isolate, I mean come on, are we just out to hate and be intolerable of everything?
My father-in-law beats his wives and can't hold down a job. Haven't seen or heard from him in 28 years and don't care to see him anytime soon.
My first FIL was a great man, and after I divorced his less than great son, I missed Dad a lot. He wanted nothing more to do with me for at least a year, though, because I'd hurt him so badly by divorcing---until he finally and actually came to understand what kind of monster his son was. We got along just fine after that, thankfully, because my son sure wanted to be around his Granpa D.
A ton of virtual signaling in this "article" more than half of it just sounds made up. But a lot of stuff presented by bored panda is just virtual signaling and more often than not it's just B.S.
