Amy Duggar Reflects on Surface-Level Cousin Relationships and Family Dynamics

Amy Duggar has opened up about her relationships with her cousins, describing them as largely “surface level” during her upbringing. In a recent appearance on the “Unplanned” podcast hosted by Matt and Abby Howard, she shared her thoughts on family dynamics within the context of the teachings of the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP).

While reminiscing about family trips and gatherings, the 39-year-old noted, “We would spend so much time together… but it was more surface-level. It wasn’t really heartfelt.” She elaborated that conversations rarely delved into personal struggles or spiritual experiences, often remaining focused on mundane topics like the weather or casual compliments.

This distance, according to Duggar, may stem from the adherence of her cousins to IBLP teachings, which she felt her own family did not follow. Her husband, Dillon King, contributed to the discussion, stating, “They teach, like, if you’re not in that circle, they keep you at arm’s reach.”

Conformity to Modesty Standards

Amy also recounted instances where she was asked to wear skirts at her cousins’ homes to align with their modesty standards. “I’ve tried on pantaloons before. I’ve tried on one of their swimsuits,” she said, emphasizing her effort to respect their values and rules.

She recalled an awkward moment during Dillon’s first meeting with her cousins, which highlighted the family’s strict adherence to certain rules. At a bowling alley, Dillon, unaware of the family’s no-dancing policy, began dancing to the music. “All my cousins were bowling, and they don’t dance… so, when he first met them, he walked in, and he was like dancing and just cracking up,” Amy described, noting that her family’s reaction was to slowly turn away from him.

Strengthening Bonds with Jill Duggar

Despite her complex feelings about her extended family, Amy has developed a closer bond with her cousin Jill Duggar. They appeared together in the first season of the Prime Video docuseries “Shiny Happy People,” which explores the controversies surrounding the Duggar family.

“Cousinship is so much fun,” Amy remarked about her relationship with Jill. “We can joke around and laugh, and we have inside jokes.” She highlighted the safety and trust established in their relationship, contrasting it with her earlier family experiences.

Reflecting on her familial boundaries, Amy stated, “I realized I needed to have boundaries set with my family and the situation because of the lies and things that were told.” She clarified that her concerns were not directed at her cousins but rather at the broader family dynamics.

The last meaningful interaction Amy had with her uncle Jim Bob Duggar occurred just before her cousin Josh’s trial for charges related to child pornography in 2021. Josh was ultimately sentenced to more than 12 years in prison, a situation that has deeply affected the family.

Amy’s candid reflections reveal a complex web of family relationships shaped by differing values and experiences. As she continues to navigate her connections, her commitment to establishing healthier boundaries and nurturing meaningful relationships remains clear.