How do you approach the topic?

[Pampho85]

I somewhat understand how you feel, only up to a certain point. I don't own any animals, however, I want to, I'm going to be studying zoology (reptiles specifically) in college. That's when problems come up for me. My parents actually threatened to not visit me if I do own reptiles, my family is in the medical field and me leaving it isn't the big deal. But, going into something 'mediocre' and 'unprofitable' (in their words) is making them move away from me. (All my extended family, not just close). And my father is saying that I'll have to pay for my own college tuition because of that. So, it's my call if I want to be close with my family, or not. Although, I haven't really been as close as my other cousins are with the family since I've always harbored a great interest in animals. They hate when I bring up the 'zoology' or any topic regarding animals. It's like they're looking down on me for it, just because they're being doctors or something, but, who cares, it's your life, do what you want. I've gotten comments by family members saying 'So did you pick out a real major? Zoology isn't a real field, it's for people who can't progress in life' and 'You're not going to become successful, I hope you know that'. So yeah, I've heard some comments similar to yours up to a point, but, the best thing to do is just to brush it off and answer it truthfully. If you enjoy keeping reptiles say it, it's not like they can ban you from having them.

Sorry to hear of your problem, but, you shouldn't feel ashamed about your interests. Heck if anything, whenever a family member comments about my likes, I go back at them with their likes. It makes them feel just as uncomfortable most of the time like they try to make me feel.

Sorry I wasn't much of a help. Hope everything works out!