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Is my daughter insensitive - or am I oversensitive

(4 Posts)
MVDavies Sat 13-Jun-26 22:12:20

I have osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease and recently had a painful flare up. Last week, my daughter came round to drop the grandchildren off on her way to work. She asked how I was and I said I was in a lot of pain. She pulled her face and looked annoyed. I replied that she may be ill herself one day. She then walked out. The next day she did the same, but didn't walk out. Since then I have been upset and feel that I don't want to be in her company. She never apologies if she upsets me, saying I am over-sensitive. She has acted as though nothing has happened and hugs me to say hello and goodbye. She gave me a lift to collect an order and has been amiable, as though nothing has happened. I started with a slight cold and in passing said to her, it isn't too bad. She never responded.
Her father, my ex-husband, wasn't sympathetic when I had a long labour with her, my only child. He has described himself as 'a cold fish'.
I feel she has inherited his insensitive trait. I am reluctant to mention again, if I am unwell. I am bewildered and a part of me can't stop thinking about this. I want to confront her, when the grandchildren aren't around, in case it escalates into an argument and ask her 'why is she like this with me?'
Recently my partner had a burst blood vessel in his eye and she was sympathetic and concerned.
Six weeks ago, we moved over 200 miles away to live nearby, to see more of her, her partner and the grandchildren. She was very helpful, viewing properties. I am due to phone my cousin, but reluctant to mention it to her, as it seems her sons are sympathetic to her difficult health conditions. I don't want her to view my daughter in a bad way.
Any advice is much appreciated.

Gran22boys Sat 13-Jun-26 22:46:20

Some people have little empathy. It’s how they are made. She has obviously got your ex husband’s genes. She can’t help it. She loves you but doesn’t really know how to show it. I have a son like this. I’ve got used to it. We can’t change people thought we’d like to. Also children whatever their age don’t like to think parents are vulnerable.

Gran22boys Sat 13-Jun-26 22:47:39

Though not thought

Wyllow3 Sat 13-Jun-26 23:14:38

"Also children whatever their age don’t like to think parents are vulnerable."

I think that is a very wise thing to write. I'm not saying she isn't insensitive, but fears could also be present. She simply may not know how to handle it and is trying to "make up" in the only way she knows.

You are not over sensitive however.