1. Home
  2. People & Relationships
  3. Marriage

Her Choice
Her Choice

By Sheri & Bob Stritof, About.com

Answer

Speaking as parents, we think most anything you say to your daughter that is negative about the guy she is in love with will be met with strong opposition.

If you truly believe that their relationship doesn't have a chance, then there will come a time when your daughter will really need you to be there for her. If she has pulled away from you because of your disapproval of her choice, then she may not turn to you for help even if she honestly needs it.

We hope you continue to work on your relationship with your daughter apart from him. Take her to lunch, on a shopping trip, to a movie for a girls' night out, etc. If she asks you questions about marriage, relationships, etc., be honest in your answers but don't criticize or put blame on him. It's not easy to do, but it is important.

Hopefully, your daughter will realize for herself the red flags in their relationship before she marries him. If they do set a wedding date, we would recommend that you offer to pay for a pre-marital workshop or Engaged Encounter weekend for the two of them.

Proceed to the next question.

About.com Special Features

Your last name may reveal a compelling story about your family history. More >

Is someone in your life passive aggressive? Find out why and how to handle it. More >