If this weren't happening to real people, Beaubear, it would be most entertaining. But itis real so it is not funny.

I think you put your finger on it when you said d-i-l is acting 14 years old and step-ie - seeing as how it works - has joined her in that mindset.

It appears that stepanddil are in a power play - just like 14-year olds - and since you won't play the game it has brought them to desperation.

Incidentally, claiming to the authorities that they are contributing a monthly $250 to the household when they are doing nothing of the sort is illegal. Being a rushhead should inform them that making false claims is immoral in addition...