Topic Avoidance as a Boundary Management Strategy in Communication With a Mother‐in‐Law

Abstract

ObjectiveTo examine the relational outcomes of daughter‐in‐law (DIL) topic avoidance with her mother‐in‐law (MIL).BackgroundDILs are known to use disclosure and topic avoidance in an attempt to maintain independence and privacy with MILs. We hypothesize that DILs also use strategic topic avoidance as a boundary management process to regulate interactions.MethodWomen (N = 180, Mage = 36.84) completed a cross‐sectional online survey of open‐ and closed‐ended questions regarding self‐disclosure, topic avoidance, relationship closeness, trust, and uncertainty. Analyses included qualitative thematic analysis and coding for open‐ended data, and a parallel effects mediation model for quantitative data.ResultsTopic avoidance statistically mediated the association between self‐disclosure and relationship closeness, trust, and uncertainty. Qualitative coding revealed avoidance motivations used by DILs to create boundaries were based on specific topics, personal characteristics of the MILs, and coordinated responsibilities to another person.ConclusionThere are several reasons why DILs avoid communication with MILs. Topic avoidance is one way that DILs control privacy boundaries with MILs.ImplicationsDILs should be encouraged to develop rules regarding their own communication of private or co‐owned information with MILs. These privacy management rules can foster independence in an involuntary relationship.