Why does it seem that family members feel the need to drop bombshells during the holiday dinner table?

Question

For instance, Person A: "I dropped out of college(even though I am a year away from graduating), Person B: "I am being taken to court and may end up in jail", Person C: I am going to counseling because my job says I need it."

I am the only one who had to sit through conversations like these?

Answer 1

just be thankful it wasn't you

Answer 2

Anymore it seems like the holidays are the only times we see family. Big news like dropping out of college is not something that you want to do over the phone so when we see family we have the opportunity to tell them in person. Also some people may think that the family will take the news better at the holidays than at other times. I personally think that there is enough stress at the holidays without adding to it, but you are right, it seems that it is becoming a very popular time.

Answer 3

No. Many families are dysfunctional, and a lot of family members love chaos. The best way to get it is to start a fight or drop a bombshell.
Sounds like this batch are competeing for a "Give me the most pity" medal.
My advice? Find some friends that you can dine with for next year's holiday table.

Answer 4

Some darned people don't understand quiet and pleasant dinner conversation! This is not the time to bring up custody issues, dog's anal glands, and the worst thing going on in your life! I am speaking from experience here. I have eaten with some people who talk about stuff I wouldn't bring up at the card table. Best of luck to you!! Try not to choke anyone. And Happy Holidays!!

Answer 5

Poor thing! Thanksgiving fairly sucked, did it?? Jeez!

I think people do that b/c it's one of the few times in today's society that the family is all together in one place, so those people with a bomb to drop can do so with a captive audience. No having to tell dad, listen to him yell for an hour, then having to call Aunt Tilly and listen to her cry for an hour. Tell everybody at once while they're right there, take your punishment, and be done with the whole thing!

Answer 6

Sorry I had to laugh, I think holidays are great but anytime you get a group of people together, you're exposing yourself to those peoples issues, faults, and dysfunctional traits, then if there's any alcohol involved (truth serum, depressant, instant idiot in a bottle) there's bound to be some turmoil. Happy Helladays!

Answer 7

certain, that's rather rude for all people who's interior a similar room with the different individual to be texting them, now to not indicate with the help of the table from one yet another. in the experience that they have got something inner most to assert to at least one yet another that they don't desire all people else to take heed to, they could talk it after dinner in yet another room remote from anybody. that's rude and disrespectful to textual content with the help of the table from one yet another, except anybody else out of your communication.

Answer 8

It is simple. The more people present, the less likely their parents will kill them or yell at them or make a scene. A friend of mine told me this years ago. Put the most people who will fit into a room and no one is likely to make a scene and embarrass themselves if some surprises them w/ unexpected news.

Answer 9

Usually it is the only time the whole family is together and may be more supportive and understanding.

Answer 10

No, my drama queen sister who always has to be the center of attention went into labor before the turkey could be served. I don't know HOW she did it but knowing her, it was PLANNED!

Answer 11

No and it is a symptom of immaturity, ego-centrism and hostility. Also they are playing the 'I'm worse off than you' game.