It can be difficult to bring home a husband/boyfriend to meet your family; especially if the opinion of your loved one will have a great impact on your own. Though there are many different types of families, with many different ideals and beliefs, sharing a positive and meaningful experience can be achieved by paying attention to a few simple details.

Meeting Dad:

?Territorial: It is important to keep in mind that when bringing home a new beau, to meet your father, more is taking place than what can be seen on the surface. Often men experience an immediate state of alertness simply because a new male is in their territory. For centuries it has been a natural instinct of men to protect their territory and by extension, their families. While some mothers may be just as protective, (if not more so,) it is important to remember that on a subconscious level, fathers may have more difficulty with meeting a new man simply because some of their reservations are under the surface. A simple way not to aggravate this problem is to make sure that your husband/boyfriend does not invade any territories that he has not been welcomed into; be sure that he asks politely about entering rooms that might be especially important to your father; e.g.: a den or garage or perhaps a personal office. Getting to handsy while in your parents company is also another form of invasion and best kept to simple affectionate gestures rather than any real groping.

?Strength and Age: Another difficulty fathers particularly face is the idea that they are no longer the strong protector in their offspring's life. The introduction of a new man insinuates on some level that the father's role is no longer necessary and this can cause hurt feelings he may not even be aware of; this might cause some initial friction even at the mere mention of an important, new man in your life. To help ease this transition try to assure your father of his ongoing importance in your life; allowing him to retain some part of his role as protector might allow him to let go a bit easier.

?Common Interests: If your husband/boyfriend and your father share any common interests this can be an excellent topic to push while conversing. Try to give them time together to get to know each other without your interference, but only if they seem completely comfortable. On the same note; remember to steer away from, (possibly pre-warn your beau of,) any subjects that may cause anyone present to feel uncomfortable. In time certain difficult subjects might be appropriate, but certainly when your family is just getting to know him you do not want your husband/boyfriend to head into uncomfortable, verbal territory.

Meeting Mom:

?False Compliments: Mothers can be just as territorial and protective of their children as their fathers might be, but often it shows in a very different way. Commonly mothers will spend a great deal of time trying to size up your husband /boyfriend before making any snap decisions; however, there are many mothers who will be on guard for any sign of insincerity. One of the most classic approaches to winning over a partner's mother has always been to compliment heavily; too often these compliments are not only false under the surface, but sound it as well. While your mother may put on a good face while enduring a downpour of false niceties, she will most certainly assume the worst about your beau. Remember that one true compliment is far better than ten false ones; try to keep your guy from laying it on too thick or he might just step in it.

?A Gift: Nearly all mothers appreciate a gesture of goodwill and taking home some flowers (make sure to alert him to any allergies that might be present,) or a token of your beau's hopes for a pleasant evening, can be a wonderful way to break the ice. This gesture also suggests that the man is a good provider and while we do live in an age of equality, thousands of years of instincts are difficult to quash over a century.

?Little Ones: If you have any intention of having children with your husband/boyfriend this can be an excellent subject to bring up with most mothers. Often mothers are downright impatient about getting grandchildren out of their own kids and love to hear about any plans you and your beau might be considering. If children are not yet being planned for, but you do hope to have them someday, taking any opportunities to show off your beau's skills with children can be an endearing experience. Though there may be many good fathers in the world, too often in our society men either abandon or have little to do with their children; showing your mother that your husband/boyfriend will be a stable and adoring dad can help to gain her approval.

?Appearance: While some fathers are just as capable at making snap judgments about appearance, mothers often hold the scepter in this area. Regardless of how casual the meeting is, be sure that your husband/boyfriend dresses well. Even casual clothes can come in a variety of styles that speak loudly about the person. Find a style that both suits your beau and will please, or at the least not offend, both parents (but especially mom.)

Meeting Siblings:

?More Protective: Siblings, especially brothers, can have many of the same protective instincts that fathers (and some mothers,) do. This instinct to be weary of a new person in the family will often depend a great deal on how close the siblings are, but in many cases will only manifest under the surface. Taking a little time to assure your siblings of their continued importance in your life is very important when introducing them to your beau. Many brothers endure confusing feelings of jealousy concerning a new male member; though the father's role may already be filled, brothers often feel that they were next in line to be protector and have now been passed over. This can cause some animosity, but can easily be remedied by following many of the same steps as you would with a father.

?Married: Though much has changed in the world, many women still feel a certain pressure to be married by a certain age, or the very least, in a serious relationship. Because of this, however misplaced, pressure some sisters might feel jealous when you introduce a man who is important to you to your family. Though most of these kinds of situations do not cause any serious problems on the surface, a sister might be more likely to feel insecure in this situation and may need a little extra reassurance about her special qualities.

Though it can be a stressful time, bringing home an important man in your life to meet your family, if a few precautions are taken it can be a wonderful experience for all. Little disasters can be avoided by simply keeping an eye on how the people around you are interacting and seem to be feeling. Over all, you will probably experience more stress by considering any possible catastrophe than you will experience in the situation. Remain calm and remember that everyone around you is present because they care for you, in all likelihood they will do their best to enjoy each other's company.