AITA For laughing and saying “sounds about right” when my brother and sister-in-law told me how exhausted they are with my out-of-control niece?

A family phone call turns tense when a woman laughs and says “sounds about right” as her brother and sister-in-law vent about their exhaustion with their 17-year-old daughter, Alice, who frequently misbehaves. She attributes Alice’s out-of-control behavior to their indulgent parenting, despite years of family warnings to set boundaries.

This isn’t just an accidental laugh—it’s a clash over parenting responsibility and honesty. Her brother and sister-in-law are furious, and family members call her cruel. Reddit largely supports her, criticizing the parents’ approach. As the conflict subsides, the story reveals the consequences of a lack of discipline.

‘AITA For laughing and saying “sounds about right” when my brother and sister-in-law told me how exhausted they are with my out-of-control niece?’

The OP’s reaction—laughing and saying “sounds about right”—reflects long-standing frustration with her brother and sister-in-law’s permissive parenting, which has led to Alice’s uncontrollable behavior. By doing her homework and excusing misdeeds like theft and illegal driving, the parents have reinforced Alice’s lack of accountability.

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that 70% of teens with high-risk behaviors are linked to unclear parental boundaries. Dr. Janet Taylor, a family psychologist, states, “Parenting without clear consequences can lead to prolonged defiance.” The OP’s response highlights this uncomfortable truth.

The OP could have phrased her point more gently to avoid hurting her brother and sister-in-law, but their exhaustion doesn’t negate years of ignored family warnings. Her unintended laugh, though not deliberate, escalated tensions, making them defensive rather than reflective.

To mend ties, the OP should apologize for the laugh but stand by her point about parenting consequences. She could suggest her brother and sister-in-law seek family counseling to establish boundaries with Alice. Alice needs professional support, like therapy, to change her behavior. The OP should maintain distance if disrespected but remain open to dialogue if they seek change.

Take a look at the comments from fellow users:

Reddit overwhelmingly supports the OP as NTA, arguing that her brother and sister-in-law contributed to Alice’s uncontrollable behavior by indulging her and failing to set boundaries from a young age. Users stress that doing her homework and overlooking misdeeds like theft hindered Alice’s development and responsibility.

They criticize family members for calling the OP cruel, asserting she merely voiced the truth about the consequences of lax parenting. Reddit praises the OP for not shying away from the issue, encouraging her to stay honest but suggesting she keep distance to avoid further conflict.

This family saga is a clash between harsh truth and parenting responsibility, as the OP’s laugh and comment disrupt the mood. Reddit backs her, condemning her brother’s parenting and calling for change. How do you speak truth without causing hurt? What would you do when family denies responsibility? Share your thoughts below—let’s unpack this drama!