“Nobody Knows a Man Better Than His Wife”: Woman’s Message to In-Laws Goes Viral
- A viral TikTok video by content creator @promise_makunyane challenges in-laws' assumptions about knowing their male relatives better than their wives do
- The woman, drawing from personal experience, shares that a wife's perspective of her husband is unique and irreplaceable, regardless of how long family members have known him
- Her powerful message about wives being their husbands' strongest advocates, especially for their children's sake, has sparked intense discussion about family dynamics and relationships

Source: TikTok
A thought-provoking video addressing the complex dynamics between wives and their in-laws has captured social media's attention. Content creator and podcaster @promise_makunyane shared her perspective on TikTok about the unique bond between spouses and how it differs from other family relationships.
Watch the TikTok video below.
Understanding marriage bonds
The viral message targets the heart of marriages, challenging traditional family dynamics where in-laws might claim more knowledge of their sons or brothers. @promise_makunyane shares that while family members may have known a man since childhood, a wife experiences a completely different part of his personality.

Read also
"Live your life, sister": Younger woman flaunts older husband on 9th wedding anniversary, SA stunned
PAY ATTENTION: stay informed and follow us on Google News!
As relationship experts note, this perspective shift often creates tension when families struggle to accept that their loved one has formed a new primary bond. She particularly stresses that wives have a unique investment in their husbands' well-being, especially when children are involved, stating:
"A woman wouldn't want anything to happen to him because of the children they have together."
The content creator's message resonates with common challenges as many couples find themselves caught between honouring family traditions and forging their own path.
Expert Jayshri Rangasamy spoke to Briefly News, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding in these dynamics, stating:
"Assuming positive intentions and trusting that actions are not meant to harm, even when the situation is unclear, is essential for giving the benefit of the doubt. Healthy relationships thrive on clear communication and respect. Encourage open communication to understand their needs, establish clear boundaries to respect each couple's autonomy, regularly express appreciation for their contributions, and be mindful of cultural differences by educating yourself and incorporating inclusive practices."
Additionally, Rangasamy highlights the role of neutrality in maintaining family harmony.
"Remaining neutral in conflicts is crucial as it builds trust, fosters open communication, and reduces emotional escalation. Parents can practice active listening, reframe conversations to focus on problem-solving, and maintain mindfulness and self-awareness to avoid biases."
By prioritizing open dialogue and mutual respect, families can create a supportive environment that strengthens marital bonds while maintaining meaningful relationships with extended family members.

Source: TikTok
SA weighs in on family dynamics
@Shala shared:
"True re bona metlholo😢He used to tell me when I tell his family what he was doing they will never believe me."
@clementine037 noted:
"This is really the truth shem♥️ But some women can still want their husbands dead without even caring about his absence to their kids trust me😴"
@BukhosiJeza reflected:
"I always say I know my brother as a sibling, Mom knows him as a son and his wife knows him as husband. We may experience him differently. He may be toxic to his wife and be sweet to mom and siblings."
@Lindy shared:
"My husband once said 'Mom you know me as a boy but my wife knows me as a man.'"
Other in-law stories
- A South African makoti has left social media users emotional after sharing her beautiful relationship with her mother-in-law, which defies common stereotypes.
- One 'The Mommy Club' star faces unexpected challenges as in-laws make shocking revelations following her husband's tragic passing.
- Briefly News also reported on Dr Musa Mthombeni's heartwarming Valentine's gesture towards his mother, grandmother, and mother-in-law showcasing a beautiful example of family harmony.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU - click on “Recommended for you” and enjoy!
Source: Briefly News

Nerissa Naidoo (Human Interest Editor) Nerissa Naidoo is a writer and editor with seven years of experience. Currently, she is a human interest writer at Briefly News and joined the publication in 2024. She began her career contributing to Morning Lazziness and later joined Featherpen.org. As a TUW ghostwriter, she focused on non-fiction, while her editorial roles at National Today and Entail.ai honed her skills in content accuracy and expert-driven editing. You can reach her at nerissa.naidoo@briefly.co.za

Jayshri Rangasamy (Medical Scientist - Pharmacologist - Clinical Team Lead) Jayshri Rangasamy leads Fortrea's Clinical Team, managing Clinical Operations Delivery. Her expertise spans non-infectious (cardiovascular, endocrinology, gastroenterology) and infectious diseases (tuberculosis, Ebola, COVID-19) plus oncology (lung cancer, hematologic malignancies). She holds MS and BS degrees in Pharmacology and Human Physiology from the University of Pretoria and promotes empathetic leadership. She is also a ballroom dancer and animal activist.