Im a filipina married to an american how do you address your in laws thru their names or calling mom or dad?

Question

I need help and advice back in manila when you're already maried you can call your in laws by mom or dad but here in the states its by their names, I find it difficult to call their first names, I just want to know the proper and respectful way to address them. thanks

Answer 1

The appropriate way in America is to ask your in-laws how they wish to be addressed.

Answer 2

However they are introduced to you is usually the correct term. If they have a problem with being called mom or dad, that is the time they will usually point it out. (If you choose to err on the safe side, "Mr & Mrs. Smith", is the politest form of address)

Ask your spouse. They know their parents best, and I would think being part of being married, is helping each other out in stressful situations, like meeting the parents.

Answer 3

You need to ask them what they feel comfortable with. Some don't mind you calling them mom and dad, but others are bothered by it.

Answer 4

Ask them what they would like you to call them. If they express no preference then say "I would like to call you mom and dad, would you be comfortable with that?"
(I know one couple who continues to insist their Son-in-law call them Mr. and Mrs. X)

Alternatively just have a kid and skip straight to Grandma and Grandpa (joking!)

Answer 5

Ask you in-laws how they would like to be addressed by you.
What would they prefer you to call them.
Not everyone in America calls the mother and father-in-law by their first names.

Answer 6

I always called my in laws "mom" and "dad" . Ask them what they prefer.

Answer 7

Call them with their names. If you called them mom and dad, your husbands brothers and sister may not like it. This is a different culture here then oriental one.

Answer 8

it's really up to you and them. i have a mom and dad of my own. my in laws are not my parents so i call them by their first names. my husband still calls my dad mr.j.

Answer 9

"Mom" or "Dad" should be fine. Or you could just ask them. "Nanay & Tatay" still sounds weird to me. Hopefully your husband is making the same effort to participate in the Filipino culture & language.

Answer 10

my mother in laws name is elizabeth, but she prefers to go by lisa. i usually call her "mom", unless i'm angry/upset with her then i call her beth (she hates that). my father in law on the other hand, i've always called him al.