Is it normal to hardly ever speak to or see family members?

80% Normal
6 Comments

Is it normal to not have any relationships with my family, mostly my brothers and sister? I rarely see or talk to them and when I do it's awkward. They are quite a few years older than me so we weren't really close growing up either. Sometimes I feel guilty because I never make an effort to get together or talk to them. I don't want to regret not spending time with them when i'm older, but when we do spend any time together it feels forced and uncomfortable. I love my family but there's just no connection.

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80% Normal
Based on 61 votes (49 yes)
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Comments ( 6 )
  • Jane2me
    11 years ago

    The more times you spend together, the less awkward it will be. Try suggesting going on a picnic together. Something fun where you won't be "stuck" feeling uncomfortable. Maybe try having everybody taking a turn setting up the family event. Set up a specific timetable or it won't happen. Maybe monthly or quarterly but get it on the calendars of those who want to get to know you better. There might be a time when each of you may need family support in the future. Make the effort to make these ties now when you can and I think you will be the better for it.

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  • Doctorknowsbest
    12 years ago

    I am the youngest of my family. There were 7 kids and my 5 brothers were all older by 10-13 years. My sister is closest in age by 2 years. We never got along well together. I tried after loosing my mother to cancer to stay close with the family. Mom was the glue that kept us together. I made the choice to stop talking with my family because I was just happier that way. The phone does not ring with them looking for me and it has always been that way. People feel that families should stay together no matter what and I agree to a certain degree. If they wanted me around they would come get me right.

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  • notnormal32
    12 years ago

    You just keep trying and thats their loss in the end.

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  • NeuroNeptunian
    12 years ago

    My husband's family is like that. His older sister tries to keep them both together but they weren't too close growing up (they raised themselves, essentially) and all found friendship outside of the house as their parents were crappy. They love eachother too but there is no connection there either. It happens, don't worry too much about it.

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  • solidman
    12 years ago

    its copletetly normal its just an ununited family, i have one too just keep trying and keep hoping.

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  • Shackleford96
    12 years ago

    I agree with Mando, keep on trying. I feel much the same way with my older sister now days.

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