When family ties break: the Beckham story
Family is supposed to be a safe space, yet sometimes, it’s the source of the deepest pain. That’s what appears to be happening in the Beckham household, where Brooklyn Beckham, 24, has reportedly told his parents, Victoria and David, to communicate with him only through lawyers.
The move comes after Brooklyn unfollowed his parents and siblings on social media, an action later confirmed by his younger brother Cruz. On Instagram Stories, Cruz explained:
“My mum and dad would never unfollow their son… Let’s get the facts right. They woke up blocked… as did I.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Brooklyn’s wife, Nicola Peltz-Beckham, also removed content related to the Beckhams from her Instagram, signalling that the family rift has extended beyond immediate relations.
Family estrangement in the modern era
Psychologist Dr. Keitumetse Mashego explains that estrangement is becoming increasingly common, particularly among younger generations who prioritise mental health and personal boundaries.
“People are more vocal about their feelings now. They’re intolerant of abuse, toxicity, or disrespect, even from family,” Mashego says.
She notes that parent-child conflicts often stem from a combination of ongoing disagreements, perceived unfair treatment, or emotional neglect. For children, this can mean feeling unheard, unseen, or conditionally loved. For parents, it can involve frustration or a sense of losing control over a child’s decisions.
“Culture is changing. Mental health is becoming a priority, and sometimes that means setting firm boundaries or even cutting ties with family members who will not change,” Mashego adds.
Boundaries, guilt, and social media
In Brooklyn’s case, his choice to insist on lawyer-mediated communication may seem extreme, but it could be his way of maintaining necessary boundaries. Experts say boundaries are vital but can bring guilt, particularly when dealing with close family.
“Boundaries are a new habit for many. They need consistency, and the person putting them up has to continually remind themselves why they are necessary, even when others resist,” Mashego explains.
Social media complicates matters further. Public platforms can turn personal disputes into viral stories, amplifying emotions and pressure from outsiders.
Is reconciliation always possible?
Mashego stresses that while reconciliation can happen, it requires willingness from all parties to change, take responsibility, and engage in honest communication.
“Choosing your sanity and mental health may sometimes mean keeping distance. You can only change yourself. If others aren’t willing to engage or acknowledge harm, the healthiest choice is often acceptance and self-care.”
She also advises viewing family members based on their actual capacity, rather than hopes, expectations, or potential, allowing for a more realistic and protective approach to relationships.
The modern family dilemma
The Beckham feud is not just celebrity gossip; it’s a lens on a wider societal trend. As family dynamics evolve and personal boundaries gain importance, more people are choosing mental health over tradition, sometimes publicly, sometimes painfully.
In a world where private lives can be amplified overnight, the story of the Beckhams reminds us that even the most celebrated families are not immune to the age-old tensions of love, expectation, and the need for personal space.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@IrishStarUS}
