Tell your family member to stop putting you down. Say it firmly and like you mean it. By wavering in any way you are sending the message that it is okay for them to do so. You do not have to raise your voice or yell but do keep your tone firm. This will let your family member know that this is a serious issue.

Tell your family member how it makes you feel when being put down. Explain that it hurts your feelings and that it makes you upset. Try to relate this feeling to a scenario that you know they have experienced as well. For example, say something like "remember when so and so called you that name and you ended up crying? That's how it feels when you say those things to me." By giving your family member this kind of comparison you will help to solidify in their mind how it truly makes you feel.

Give your family member some examples of specific negative statements or put downs that they have said to you. Sometimes people do not realize the frequency with which they say things, or even the fact that they have said these things at all. You do not want your family member to think that you are angry at only the most immediate comment that was made. Make it clear that this has been an ongoing pattern and that it needs to stop.

Leave the situation if your family member does not stop putting you down. You should not have to deal with put downs in any manner or form. If you have spoken with your family member about this but the put downs continue, simply leave the room, hang up the phone, or walk away. Make a statement letting your family member know that you aren't going to put up with their behavior and then stick to it.