Miss Manners: Unkind comments from granddaughter warrant response
I’m wondering how to address my 10-year-old granddaughter when she says things that are unkind to me.
She has a habit of putting down her younger brother , for which I’ve admonished her. We’ve always had an excellent relationship, but I notice she’s now directing these types of comments my way, particularly about my innate physical characteristics. I’m reluctant to give her the power of knowing she can wound me, but I’m not quite sure how to handle this passive-aggressive behavior. Suggestions?Yes, two. First, that you recognize that this behavior is aggressive-aggressive, not passive-aggressive. And second, that you dissuade yourself of the idea that the power is hers if she knows she can wound you.
Miss Manners hopes that at 10 years old, this child is not beyond learning empathy -- or at the very least, the consequences of damaging relationships. As her grandmother, you have the standing to tell her that this is hurtful and that insulting people is not acceptable.If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.
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