AITA for telling my mom I’m not paying $100 dollars for thanksgiving dinner?
A crisp autumn breeze carries the scent of roasted turkey, but in one household, the warmth of Thanksgiving is overshadowed by a tense standoff. A 16-year-old, juggling a Taco Bell job and dreams of studying abroad, faces a tough choice: fork over $100 for the family’s holiday feast or stand his ground for his future. His single mom’s request feels like a heavy weight on his young shoulders, stirring a whirlwind of emotions—guilt, frustration, and determination. Readers can’t help but wonder: is he right to prioritize his savings, or is family duty calling louder?
The situation unfolds like a relatable family drama, pulling us into the teen’s world. His struggle to balance personal goals with familial expectations resonates deeply, sparking questions about boundaries and responsibility. With Thanksgiving’s glow dimmed by this conflict, the story invites us to explore the delicate dance of giving and self-preservation in a cash-strapped household.
‘AITA for telling my mom I’m not paying $100 dollars for thanksgiving dinner?’
This teen’s clash with his mom over a $100 Thanksgiving contribution reveals a classic tension: familial obligation versus personal ambition. At 16, he’s caught in a tricky spot, expected to chip in while chasing his own dreams. The pressure to contribute financially can feel like a betrayal of youth, especially when his earnings are meant for college abroad.
Dr. Brad Reedy, a family therapist, notes, “When parents rely on children for financial support, it can invert family roles, creating resentment and stifling independence” (Psychology Today). Here, the teen’s mom may see his job as a resource, while he views it as a ticket to his future. Her $100 demand, steep for a single meal (the average Thanksgiving dinner for 10 costs $53.31, per the American Farm Bureau), suggests blurred boundaries, possibly driven by her own financial stress.
This situation reflects a broader issue: the rising trend of teens contributing to household expenses. A 2023 study found 20% of U.S. teens work to support their families, often at the expense of personal goals (Pew Research Center). The teen’s refusal isn’t just rebellion—it’s a stand for self-preservation. Setting boundaries now can prevent a cycle of over-dependence.
Advice: The teen could propose a compromise, like contributing a smaller amount or helping with meal prep, to show support without derailing his savings. Open communication, perhaps with a trusted adult mediator, could help clarify expectations and ease tensions.
Here’s what Redditors had to say:
Reddit’s hot takes are as spicy as cranberry sauce! Here’s what the community had to say about this family showdown.
![[Reddit User] − NTA. Your mom is scamming you. A hundred bucks isn't a part of Thanksgiving dinner. It's the whole dinner and then some. The estimate of preparing Thanksgiving dinner for a 10 person family is $53.31. But also, feeding you is one of the things parents are supposed to do.](https://en.aubtu.biz/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/303606cmt-04.png)
These opinions are bold, but do they capture the full picture, or are they just keyboard warriors dishing out quick judgments?
This teen’s bold stand sparks a bigger question: where’s the line between family duty and personal dreams? His story reminds us that even in the season of gratitude, financial pressures can strain bonds. Readers, what would you do if caught between helping family and chasing your goals? Share your thoughts—have you faced a similar tug-of-war?
