Our names accompany us throughout our entire lives and are a significant part of our identity. If that name happens to be quite unique, there are also some additional nuances that come with it.
More info:Reddit
Some people feel like they know better regarding how you should be named, and there’s nothing you can do to change their mind
Image credits:Hannah Bickmore (not the actual photo)
Image credits:Liza Summer (not the actual photo)
They kept calling her Florence, ignoring her requests to stop this behavior, so the woman stopped answering them
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During their latest encounter, the in-laws and their friend called the woman childish for acting this way, which got her wondering if she was being unreasonable
From the moment they met, her in-laws couldn’t believe this was her full name. What bothered them even more was the fact that the woman liked to be called Florry, as, according to them, the name was too juvenile-sounding for a professional woman.
The OP’s husband supported her, and they have distanced themselves from his parents ever since. But the meetings couldn’t be avoided altogether, so every time they saw each other, the in-laws would call the poster Florence.
The husband suggested that the woman could just ignore them, which she chose to do. However, the next time they met, the parents had brought some friends with them, and all of them together were calling the OP childish for refusing to answer to the name she didn’t want to be called. They argued that it can be seen as just another nickname and shouldn’t be a big deal. This made the woman question her decision and seek validation from the Reddit AITA community.
Image credits:Abdiel Hernandez Villegas (not the actual photo)
Additional issues may arise “When individuals feel entitled to express unsolicited opinions, potentially intruding on personal matters or decisions,” said Vanessa, adding that this type of behavior disregards boundaries and usually stems from the lack of awareness, sensitivity, and respect toward others’ choices and autonomy.
The expert suggested that when encountering resistance regarding one’s preferred name, it’s wise to consider involving a trusted ally who could help convey the importance of the matter. “Sometimes, a persuasive voice can influence a change in behavior more effectively. Setting a clear boundary and conveying that judgment and criticism of your name are unacceptable is an act of self-preservation.”
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However, just like in this story, sometimes, the boundaries may end up being ignored. According to the expert, taking issues with someone’s name may very well indicate broader control issues. “Disputes over personal choices, such as a name, can be symptomatic of a desire to exert influence or manipulate various aspects of an individual’s life.”
While now, thanks to Vanessa Marie, we also better understand why her in-laws may be acting the way they do, this still doesn’t justify their actions, and distancing herself even further from them might be the only choice that Florry has that doesn’t make her give into their game.
The commenters supported the woman and suggested various creative ways to deal with her situation
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