i think as he is growing older he feels that his parents are growing older too, and hence he is getting more emotional. this is a tough spot to be in, as whatever you say can be taken in the wrong sense by him. i think you will have to ignore certain things as long as his parents are not directly insulting you or making things difficult for you. if he gives in to their wishes, as long as it does not harm your immediate family, then i feel you can let it go. if it does affect, then please talk to him and tell him why you are getting concerned and how you think it can be taken care of.