Fights At Family Gatherings

Tips to make it truly a Merry TH Christmas without any fights at the family lunch.

- Pheto Ramakobya

CHRISTMAS is just around the corner and this means there will be yet another family gathering. But you are probably not looking forward to this because you still remember last Christmas’ gathering, where your troublesome uncle was on everybody’s case because he had one too many to drink and dished out dirt on everybody, nearly ruining the whole family lunch. Move! speaks to experts who share ways to deal with the drama at family gatherings so you can enjoy Christmas.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PLANNING THE GET TOGETHER

Not all family get togethers are a walk in the park. Jennifer Papers, a counselling social worker at The Family Life Centre, says you have to take everyone’s needs and expectations into consideration when planning for the get together.

The aunt who won’t pitch because of other family members

Jennifer advises that you speak with your aunt and explain that her attendance is significant, not only for you, but everyone else, especially the guest of honour (if you have one). “Be sure to mention that the get together can’t be complete without her,” says Jennifer.

The family ‘know-it-all’

If something is not a success, the family know-it-all is usually the first one to point this out. “Don’t let their comments annoy you. Instead, ask them for advice on dealing with the next situation. If you give them a chance to take charge, they may back off. They probably don’t want to turn the tables and risk being criticised,” says Jennifer.