This was an eye-opening read for me, David. My family doesn’t function this way at all. My sisters and I didn’t socialize with our parents and our boyfriends much. They might come for dinner occasionally, but were always treated like guests. The relationships were separate from the family.

I’ve gotten to know some of my son’s girlfriends a bit better, but I’ve held them at arms length emotionally. It wasn’t a deliberate decision, just what felt normal to me. His breakups haven’t caused me much pain. It’s interesting getting a different perspective. Thanks!