AITAH for refusing to be a cheap babysitter for my dad’s girlfriend?
An 18-year-old guy has been asked repeatedly to babysit his dad’s girlfriend’s three young children (ages 5, 7, and 10) overnight for just $25—from 7pm to 10am. He’s done it a couple times but felt undervalued, especially since it involves entertaining the kids, not just quiet supervision. His dad and girlfriend Laura live together and expect monthly help for date nights, arguing family should get discounts and it’s bonding time with future “stepsiblings.”
He pushed back, saying they’re not married yet, he’s not obligated to play big brother, and the pay is too low for the responsibility. They guilt-tripped him about supporting their relationship, calling him selfish. He’s not close to his dad (mom had primary custody) and lives with her now. After a year of no babysitting, they’re pressing again for a pre-Christmas night out, unwilling to pay market rates. He stood firm, uninterested in cheap labor.
The arrangement started casually but felt exploitative.
Soon, it turned into an expected routine.
His distant relationship with his dad adds layers to why he’s not eager to help.
The pressure ramped up again recently for a special occasion.
Blended families often face unrealistic expectations around roles and labor, especially when one parent pushes “instant family” narratives. Babysitting three young children overnight demands significant responsibility—safety, routines, potential emergencies—far beyond casual favors. Fair compensation acknowledges effort, preventing exploitation disguised as bonding.
Family therapists emphasize organic relationship-building in stepfamilies; forcing closeness through obligations breeds resentment. At 18, asserting boundaries models healthy adulthood—guilt tactics like “bonus son” or relationship threats manipulate rather than foster genuine ties.
Market realities highlight the imbalance: professional sitters charge $15-25 hourly, plus overnights; $25 total undervalues time immensely. Declining doesn’t make someone selfish—it protects autonomy. Long-term, respecting “no” builds trust; ignoring it risks alienation. The teen’s stance prioritizes self-respect without cruelty, a mature response to pressure.
Check out how the community responded:
Everyone sided firmly with the teen, calling out the low pay and emotional manipulation.
Many highlighted the absurdity of the pay and pressure.
Some suggested witty comebacks or fair rates.
Unanimously not the asshole: $25 for 15 hours with three active kids is exploitation, not family help. Stepsibling bonds can’t be forced, and date nights aren’t his responsibility. Suggesting market rates or declining politely shuts down guilt. Would you counter with a fair price quote, or just keep saying no outright?
