How to Accept a Daughter's Boyfriend

Accepting a daughter's boyfriend can be challenging for any parent. Even if your daughter is dating a man you approve of, there sometimes are things about him that you don't like. Or it's possible you wish she had chosen someone else entirely. Either way, you might ruin your relationship with your daughter if you criticize her boyfriend or don't make an effort to accept him. Despite what you might think of him, it's best to give him the kind of consideration and respect your daughter would appreciate.

Instructions

    • 1

      Get to know your daughter's boyfriend. You might be more inclined to accept him if you know more about his past, his family and his goals in life. Invite him to dinner, take him on a family trip and ask him to be part of holiday and birthday celebrations. As you get to know him, you might discover more things to like about him.

    • 2

      Ask your daughter what she loves about him. When you hear that he treats her like a princess or supports her with enthusiasm, it might help you accept him more. If you know why he makes her happy, you can start focusing on those things rather than what you don't like about him.

    • 3

      Look for ways he brings out the best in your daughter. Maybe he's influenced her to be more environmentally conscious or taught her how to handle her finances or schoolwork better. It can be easier to accept him when you see how he's positively influenced your daughter's character or helped her become a more mature, well-rounded individual.

    • 4

      Meet his parents. Sometimes it's easier to accept someone when you see what kind of parents the individual has. Meeting your daughter's boyfriend's parents could help shed light on some of the things you don't accept about him, such as his religious beliefs or work ethic. Invite his parents over for dinner or a holiday gathering. You might develop more compassion and acceptance for your daughter's boyfriend if you can understand the way he was raised.

    • 5

      Have an honest conversation with your daughter's boyfriend about his intentions. Sometimes, voicing your concerns in a calm and nonaggressive manner can clear the air, help you understand one another better and promote mutual acceptance. If he truly cares about your daughter, this will be evident in how he responds to your questions and concerns.

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