AITA for telling a woman I don’t care about her grievance?

In a quiet neighborhood blanketed by early snow, a parent’s morning peace was shattered two days ago. Their son, eager to earn cash, shoveled driveways, including one for a neighbor who now demands more service for less pay. The parent, irritated by the early knock, faced a heated dispute, setting a boundary that left both sides fuming.

The standoff escalated when the neighbor insisted on repayment or labor, only to be met with a blunt rejection. As guilt creeps in, the parent wonders if their lack of empathy crossed into a**hole territory, especially given the neighbor’s persistence. The tension lingers into June 12, 2025, a memory still fresh.

‘AITA for telling a woman I don’t care about her grievance?’

Setting boundaries is key, especially when defending a child’s autonomy. The parent’s refusal to intervene in the neighbor’s dispute with their son aligns with Dr. Janet Woititz’s view that “over-involvement can undermine a child’s responsibility” . Their stance was firm but fair.

The neighbor’s expectation of a multi-day deal for $15, despite the son’s denial, reflects a misunderstanding, possibly intentional. A 2021 Journal of Consumer Affairs study highlights how pricing disputes often stem from unclear agreements . The parent’s insomnia excuse adds context, justifying their irritation.

Dr. Woititz suggests empathy can coexist with boundaries—perhaps a calmer explanation could have de-escalated. Telling the neighbor “I don’t care” was blunt, risking offense, but the son’s right to set his price holds. The guilt felt is natural but doesn’t make the decision wrong.

For the parent, reinforcing clear communication with neighbors and supporting their son’s hustle is key. For others, respecting agreed terms prevents such friction. The boundary stands as a lesson in self-respect.

Heres what people had to say to OP:

Reddit’s community backs the parent, calling them NTA for supporting their son’s fair pricing. They slam the neighbor’s entitlement, noting $15 is reasonable and her demands were unreasonable. The consensus praises the son’s hustle, urging the parent to stand firm. Some suggest clarifying terms next time, but all agree the neighbor’s reaction was overblown.

As snow melts into memory, this clash highlights the value of clear boundaries. It’s a timely reminder of standing by one’s own. How do you handle neighbor disputes over kids’ work? Share your tales below let’s keep the chat going!