In-law Issues?

In-laws from hell? Believe it or not, all those uncomfortable dinners and hostile stares aren’t actually personal.

00:19 20 May 2016

Do you ever wonder why the atmosphere is uncomfortably thick and strained when you’re in the same room with your in-laws? A scientific explanation reveals that this is not because you or your in-laws are bad people or because they are overly-judgmental. It simply down to the science of evolution.

 

The study, aptly titled ‘The Juliet Effect: Real Reasons Why Your Mum and Your Sister Don’t Like Your Hunky Boyfriend’, suggests that it boils down to opposing interest and genetics.

 

Professor Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair and Associate Professor Robert Biegler from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology's Department of Psychology explained their findings using one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays.

 

"Juliet's mother would rather have Juliet marry Paris, who is from a good family. Juliet has set her sights on the heartthrob Romeo from the archenemy's family."

 

If there’s a sister in the mix, there’s a high possibility that she’s not going to be a fan either.

 

The researchers asked participants to rank 133 different characteristics describing the perfect partner for themselves or their sisters.

 

The researchers point out, "For their own partners, women focus on an attractive appearance that suggests good health and an ability to pass on their genes.

 

"At the same time, they prioritize qualities in their sister's partner that can provide direct benefits for the whole family."

Fortunately, the disparity is not absolute.

 

Biegler adds, "The women perceived characteristics like being understanding, empathetic, responsible, helpful, sensible and kind as more important for their sister's partner than for their own."