My husband demands I say ‘please’ when I request anything of him
By Judith Martin
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My husband thinks that if I ask for something without saying “please,” it is inherently rude. In addition, he will point it out and refuse to help in any way until I say “please,” even if I am in the middle of taking care of one or both of our toddlers. He even does this in front of our extended families.
Both of us frequently ask our 3-year-old daughter to say “please” to teach her good manners, and we will refuse to give her a treat, etc. until she does. However, I find my husband’s habit very rude, especially when done in front of company. It feels like I’m being treated like a 3-year-old.
I do try to politely request help, but my husband thinks there’s no such thing as politely asking for something without specifically saying “please.”
What are your thoughts?