menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

How to React If You Don't Like a Gift

40 0
30.06.2026

Why Relationships Matter

Take our Can You Spot Red Flags In A Relationship?

Find a therapist to strengthen relationships

Recently, a new friend gave me a nightgown for a birthday gift. The swirling blue and green shapes were perfect, but the material was nylon and I only wear cotton for sleeping. I didn’t know if I should say something to my gift-giving friend or not. I didn’t want to hurt her feelings. I finally told her the truth. Her eyes welled up and she said this was just confirmation of her ineptitude and why she had problems with relationships and how she suffered from depression.

It was certainly not the first time that my rejecting a gift led in an unexpected direction. Even though I am committed to honesty and transparency in relationships, I didn’t know if truth was always the best policy. I once received a necklace I didn’t want, and re-gifted it to a friend for her birthday. About a week later, she was wearing it to a party and the original gift-giver was there........

© Psychology Today