You’re setting the menu for a holiday feast. A ton of family is coming, desserts are set out, and a new sweater is ready to wear. Oh No! Your uncle, who has some flashy political opinions, is coming; when he comes, it usually ends in an argument with the tone of the holiday being altered. I, myself, have had experience with a family like this. I have argued about these topics because some members of my family and I have very different political views. It doesn’t feel good to have your holiday ruined by arguing the whole time.
Some people always have that one family member they know who will be the first person to bring up the latest news concerning the topic. Depending on the situation, talking about politics can divide the family and cause no contact between family members. So… how do we set aside these differences with the people we love?
The Problem
Families and friends may develop hatred for each other based on the party they align with instead of the person they are. A big problem with our country today and the recent election is that people can’t see each other as people. Polarization is a process that causes neutral parties to take sides in a conflict. If someone has a different mindset, it’s like they’re an enemy. Polarization has become more and more apparent in the recent events of the 2024 election. People were very evident with who they sided with.
“Where people disrespect or even hate those who believe differently than them – is one of the most pressing problems of our time. It leads to divisions between family members and friends, co-workers and colleagues, politicians, and the public,” The University of Texas College of Communication Students said.
Focus On People, Not the Politics
People should build relationships with each other before talking about politics. Don’t take comments personally as political comments aren’t a direct representation of the person.
Try to find a common ground to compromise. People are more alike than they think, and shouldn’t need to put others down because of their right to their opinions. Everyone has a right to their opinion, and you might disagree with it, but you can still be kind. Teenagers can sometimes be stubborn, so a way to fix these issues is to find the facts.
Communicate
Communicate with your family members and create boundaries. If you don’t want to talk about it, simply tell your family members not to bring it up and continue with your holiday. There are plenty of topics to discuss that don’t end with everyone storming out like they’re on a TV drama. I know with teens it can be hard to speak up, so I recommend speaking privately with that person which is what I’ve done in the past. Maybe say something like, “I know you feel strongly about this, but…” Be mature about it and if your family reacts in any sort of negative way, then I would simply walk out gracefully.
Respect Others’ Opinions
We all have that one family member who has to bring it up regardless of how everyone else feels. If they don’t respect your wishes not to discuss it, I would simply remove yourself from the conversation and go to another room. One thing about people is we can all value each other’s values and opinions because, at the end of the day, we are all the same.
According to Psychology Today, “While you may need to adjust the relationship or set healthier boundaries outright estrangement is rarely the ideal solution. Instead, focus on maintaining some connection while staying respectful to who you are and your values and boundaries.”
Ultimately, politics is always going to be considered a “hot topic” for people. New developments are always happening regarding the subject. However, holiday meals can still be enjoyed by chatting about local issues as a compromise for the issue. Political issues are important; however, there is a time and place to have those conversations and the dinner table is not the best place. Even if these conversations do arise, you can still have a great holiday spending time with the people you love. Life is short; focus on the things that matter most. Happy Holidays!
