My 16 year old niece has been having problems getting along with her parents and siblings for the past year. She has repeatedly asked to move in with us, but our response has been no. We believe that she (a) needs to learn to accept and respect her parents' authority over her and (b) needs to cope with her problems, not run away from them.
Recently her parents have asked us to let her stay with us for a few months. They have reason to believe that she is planning to run away and though they would prefer to keep her with them, they'd rather she stay with our family than do that. I believe they are also totally exhausted and ready for a break from the daily conflict.
My wife is willing, as is our 15 year old daughter. The girl spends most weekends and school vacations with us anyway, so we've got a fairly good idea of what it would be like to have her live with us.
I'm concerned about the impact this would have on our family life and on my wife's relationship with her sister. (The 2 are very close - talk on the phone daily and get together several times a week. There is already a bit of tension between them because niece is so difficult at home but fairly cooperative and respectful at our house.) As much as I love my niece and am concerned for her welfare, my first responsibility is to my wife and daughter. I don't want to loose sight of that.
We're still praying and seeking guidance about this. I'm looking for input from anyone who may have been in a similar situation.
Recently her parents have asked us to let her stay with us for a few months. They have reason to believe that she is planning to run away and though they would prefer to keep her with them, they'd rather she stay with our family than do that. I believe they are also totally exhausted and ready for a break from the daily conflict.
My wife is willing, as is our 15 year old daughter. The girl spends most weekends and school vacations with us anyway, so we've got a fairly good idea of what it would be like to have her live with us.
I'm concerned about the impact this would have on our family life and on my wife's relationship with her sister. (The 2 are very close - talk on the phone daily and get together several times a week. There is already a bit of tension between them because niece is so difficult at home but fairly cooperative and respectful at our house.) As much as I love my niece and am concerned for her welfare, my first responsibility is to my wife and daughter. I don't want to loose sight of that.
We're still praying and seeking guidance about this. I'm looking for input from anyone who may have been in a similar situation.