Feel Singled Out
Forums:
My 22 year-old SD has a boyfriend who calls me "Miss-(my first name)." He calls my husband "Mr. (our last name)." He calls our SD's mother "Mrs. (her last name)." He calls our SD's stepfather "Mr. (his last name)."
I feel singled out and disrespected. Am I being too sensitive?
That's a nice way to think
That's a nice way to think about it!
This was seen as more a term
This was seen as more a term of respect when I lived in the South. I got in the habit so I still have my son say Miss first name to any adult.
This was seen as more a term
This was seen as more a term of respect when I lived in the South. I got in the habit so I still have my son say Miss/Mr first name to any adult.
I'm in the South also.
I'm in the South also. Southern California that is.
The landscaping company foreman who I dealt with almost daily at our homeowners association calls me "Mr. David". It recognizes our daily familiarity but still throws in a title of respect.
When he first used it I reacted like you but before saying anything I analyzed the relationship and found the title acceptable.
You didn't mention if the bio-mother is still using your husbands last name. If so then confusion can result in the boys conversations with your step and her father. I agree with the others as he probably refers to his girlfriends parents to "your old man/woman" and you may not know what he calls you. What I'm trying to say is he's pretty polite and shows a lot of respect most kids don't bother with today.
However I'm sure he will be glad to call you whatever you wish - just catch him alone and give him the word.
Nobody really knows how to
Nobody really knows how to properly address a SM. It's one of life's great mysteries.
Don't take it to personal. At least the man had enough sense to address you