My younger brother says bad things about my wife and her family but only in front of me, not my wife. My parents also don't scold him. My wife is very good and takes care of everyone in house, she thinks of my brother as her own brother. What should I do

Ans: Dear Leena,
I hear you!
But do allow me to give you a perspective. Relationships are never easy to maintain and manage as they involve emotions and layers through it all. Mothers can at times see their daughters as people who they need to groom for life. It's possible that your mother is doing the same thing. She has made it her sole responsibility to continue to groom you so that you earn a good name in your husband's household. This isn't me saying it, it's the way age-old beliefs could be seeping through your mother.
Now, it has become an interference and it must be conveyed to her. At first, it will hurt her and she might react to it by reminding you of all the sacrifices that she has made in order to raise you; but mind you, be steady in what you convey.
She will eventually understand that her daughter does not need to be monitored and taught to lead her life, but just needs a support system around her. Of course, there might be a withdrawal when she has to help you, but be firm on how you would like be treated from now on.
Polite yet firm is something that works well to avoid conflicts within relationships; so use that well.
Also, the differentiation between you and your brother might just be that she gives you tough love. Tough love is shown by a parent/authority figure to another in order to toughen the other person up and in severe cases it may result in submissiveness. In your case, it is likely that she has a certain belief on how boys and girls must be raised. It will change only when she changes her belief. For now, focus on creating a better environment at home by taking charge and being polite and firm with your mother.
And do know, at the end of the day, she is a mother....love sets everything right.
All the best!

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
At times, i do ponder over whether Blood is indeed thicker than water!
Since the brother lives in the village and possibly doesn't visit your home often, the best thing is to think of him as that visitor who comes once in every while when there is an occasion at home.
How do we deal with these visitors?
Do we think of them everyday and every moment?
Are we obsessed as to how each member of the family interact with them?

So, the key for you is to treat him in your mind as that visitor and bother about him only when that occasional village trip happens or when he visits. As for what your husband does with that visitor (his brother) is solely his business and not for you to dictate or plan. Because the more you are going to demand that your husband only supports you, the more he is going to fight it and become soft with his brother.
So, now are you still going to be bothered about that visitor having hurt you in the past and rob yourself of a better time now? Think about it!

All the best!

Ans: It's understandable that your brother's feelings and concerns about the neighbor have been affecting him negatively. It's important to address the situation in a way that promotes a healthier and more peaceful environment for him. Here are some suggestions on how to handle this situation:

Encourage Open Communication: Talk to your brother openly about his feelings and frustrations regarding the neighbor. Encourage him to express his emotions and concerns without judgment. Sometimes, just having someone listen to his feelings can be very helpful.
Suggest Avoiding Confrontation: Advise your brother not to confront the neighbor directly about his feelings or suspicions. Engaging in conflicts might escalate the situation and lead to further stress and tension.
Distract from Negative Thoughts: Help your brother find activities or hobbies that can distract him from dwelling on negative thoughts about the neighbor. Engaging in positive and enjoyable activities can help shift his focus away from the situation.
Encourage Positive Interactions: Encourage your brother to interact with other neighbors or friends who have a more positive impact on his life. This way, he can build positive relationships and not be solely fixated on the negative one.
Suggest Seeking Professional Help: If your brother's feelings and thoughts about the neighbor are significantly affecting his mental well-being and day-to-day life, it might be beneficial for him to talk to a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support to help him cope with these feelings in a healthier way.
Set Boundaries with Your Brother: It's essential for your family to establish boundaries with your brother regarding how much he talks about the neighbor. If your mother is uncomfortable hearing about it constantly, kindly ask him to share his feelings with a close friend or a professional if needed.
Encourage Empathy: Try to foster empathy in your brother by encouraging him to see things from the neighbor's perspective. Perhaps the neighbor may have her own struggles or issues that could explain her behavior. While this doesn't excuse any negative actions, understanding can help reduce his anger and frustration.
Promote Self-Care: Encourage your brother to engage in self-care practices, such as exercise, mindfulness, or relaxation techniques. Taking care of his mental and emotional well-being is essential during challenging times.
Mediation: If tensions between your family and the neighbors continue to rise, consider involving a mediator or authority figure, like a community leader, to help address any conflicts and find a resolution.
Remember, it's essential to address your brother's concerns and emotions while promoting a peaceful and respectful resolution to the situation. Being proactive in finding positive ways to cope with his feelings can lead to a more harmonious living environment for everyone involved.

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Not done!
No manhandling or hitting or verbal abuse...just because he's only 10 and can't defend himself, your wife cannot display physical threats like the way that she does...When he is older, his defense mechanism may not be something that your wife can deal with. it will not be pleasant...kindly put a STOP to this...
No justifications and No excuses for manhandling or resorting to physical manner of disciplining. If she still doesn't stop, it's time you took charge of your son till she changes her behavior by learning to regulate her anger. Yes, you really need to Take Charge and this will help you son so that he does not carry any anger towards his mother which will erupt in a bad way later in life...Now, you know what you must do.

All the best!

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Can you not ignore it? What's to make a big deal about it? What did you exactly feel insulted about? The fact that she messaged you by interfering OR the use of words?
Youngsters at that age use that kind of language with no real aim to disrespect anyone.
but if it is about her interference into your relationship between you and your wife, be upfront with her and tell that you do not appreciate her meddling in your affairs.
Also, please be mature about this...She is your wife's sister and expecting your wife to be upset with her little sister is a bit too much. Each of us have a unique one-on-one relationship with another human. You may not fancy your wife's sister over this issue, but do not expect your wife to take your side etc. It is foolish to try and drive wedges within families.
Instead, do the right thing and clearly explain to your sister's wife (in front of your wife) that you do not appreciate her interference. Matter ends...
Do not bring any extra baggage that will complicate matter through ego and power play. It's wise to diffuse situations maintaining harmony within the family. Makes sense, doesn't it?

All the best!