AITA for demanding respect from my DIL and if she can’t then get the f**k out?
Family dynamics can be complicated, especially when a new member enters the picture. One Redditor (OP) found herself in a heated situation with her daughter-in-law (DIL), leading to a major fallout with her son. OP, a 39-year-old mother, felt disrespected by her DIL’s comments about her lifestyle and ultimately told her to leave the house. But was OP justified in demanding respect, or did she overreact? Let’s break down the story and see what the internet had to say.
‘AITA for demanding respect from my DIL and if she can’t then get the f**k out?’
Family psychologist Dr. Laura Mitchell explains that the core issue here isn’t just about dinner—it’s about feeling valued in a relationship. “Not having a meal set aside for the wife may have made her feel unconsidered or unimportant. Small gestures, like ensuring there’s food for everyone, can go a long way in strengthening emotional bonds and fostering mutual respect.”
Marriage counselor Mark Davidson adds, “This situation could be a symptom of poor communication habits in the relationship. Instead of letting frustrations build up, both partners need to clearly express their expectations and needs. Direct communication can help prevent these types of misunderstandings from escalating into bigger conflicts.”
So, is this just a minor miscommunication, or does it hint at a deeper issue regarding thoughtfulness and communication in their marriage?
Here’s the input from the Reddit crowd:
Reddit users had mixed reactions to OP’s situation. Some defended him, arguing that his wife was being passive-aggressive by declining food and then getting upset when there was none left. They believed she should have communicated her needs more clearly instead of expecting OP to read between the lines. Others, however, felt OP was inconsiderate for not making enough food in the first place.
They pointed out that cooking dinner for the family should naturally include his wife, even if she was arriving later. A few users took a more balanced stance, saying both were at fault—his wife for not being direct and OP for not being more thoughtful. Many agreed that a simple act like setting aside a plate would have prevented the whole issue.
Family conflicts are never simple, and this situation is no exception. While OP’s DIL made undeniably rude comments, some argue that OP’s reaction—kicking her out—may have worsened the situation. So, was OP justified in demanding respect, or did she go too far? What do you think?
