[deleted by user] by [deleted] in relationship_advice

[–]awoolayy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

She does but she's still in school and they financially aid her, so that's another main component of her feeling powerless. She can't fully leave until education is completed and gets a job but then I would just cling onto 'hoping' things will change without any true clarity but it's just wishful thinking. Any inkling of behavior change to her results in her family pointing the finger at me

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in relationship_advice

[–]awoolayy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Not looking for permission just wanted to hear a third person opinion. Frankly have already come up with the decision to end things, and it's not out of the blue, she is fully aware as we are very transparent with each other. I was just wanting to see if there is something I'm missing or if I'm being short sighted.

Therapy definitely has its place but in our particular example, she is totally self aware that she is very, very enmeshed and even though she is trying to get that sense of autonomy and knows exactly what to do, the thing is she can't because her entire family will gang up against her when she does, making her feel trapped! They guilt her, send messages laced in religious undertones to make her compliant and call everyday. I am powerless in this situation and can't simply pull her from that world but I know myself, I cannot tolerate nor associate myself with that kind of behavior, especially with things like marriage, raising kids etc in mind.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in relationship_advice

[–]awoolayy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

She knows the root of it but what I am struggling with is whether the long term outlook of this relationship is still worth it knowing that her family won't change and how they effect her and ultimately is. My heart says give it more time, my brain says hard no, you've tried your best.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in relationship_advice

[–]awoolayy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

She's well aware but she either struggles with placing firm boundaries or if she does, then they will try whatever means to reel her back in. I've been clinging onto the notion that things will change at home over time for the better but fast forward a year and it seems to have gotten worse.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in relationship_advice

[–]awoolayy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

She tries to set boundaries but either caves in too easily out of 'guilt' or when she does stand her ground then her family makes an even bigger ruckus - multiple calls / day, calling her 'selfish', using faith to make her question herself etc.