I’ve been talking with my friends lately about their in-laws, and it has led to some ridiculous stories and lively discussion. There is a reason that people like to jokes about their in-laws; disagreements and ill sentiment are prevalent. Why?

People are not perfect. I don’t think this is news to anyone, but there are imperfect people everywhere. Why don’t the people at your job or on the train bother you so much? At least three things are at play. First, as you grow up with your family, you become desensitized to just how ridiculous they are. Secondly, you get to know them well. There is no pretense of normalcy and no attempt to curb personalities or remain socially acceptable. Lastly, you love them because they are family, even though they are flawed.

With in-laws, you have none of these three elements. You are thrust into the middle of a family circle of people who are as imperfect as yourself, do not attempt to hide it, and with whom you have not come to love yet as you grow together. It’s no surprise then, that bad in-law jokes are the rule, and not the exception.