The role of the family in reconciling the relationship between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law

Abstract

Abstract:  One of the relationships that has many potential conflicts and can lead to violence is the relationship between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. Most researches, however, have focused only on the triad: mother‑in‑law, daughter‑in‑law, and son, while other family members have been neglected, in terms of both attitude and behaviors. Applying the role theory, this paper examined how all family members participate in reconciling the mother‑in‑law/daughter‑in‑law relationship. This study employed qualitative methods, based on in‑depth interviews with 10 family members in a rural commune in Nam Dinh province (now part of Ninh Bình province). Among these, 04 families with different strategies were selected for case study analyses. The findings underscored key effective strategies including sharing responsibility for elder care, proactive love expressions from mother‑in‑law toward daughter‑in‑law, and changes in living arrangements.