I am usually fine in the dark. I'm usually on my computer, so there is light there. Sometimes my eyes are sensitive to light, so sitting in a dim house helps.
I do prefer a light on outside. Some reason I think it will keep people away. We live in a rural area with no street lights. My husband usually turns it off, but I've never asked him to leave it on either. I can handle going into the dark when it is on the first or second floor, but not in the basement. I also do not like to come home to a dark house. I prefer that we leave some sort of light on inside.
People should respect your wishes/issues, especially family. I'm sorry they aren't doing that.