AITA if I stop attending functions with my husband’s family because I get ignored?

Seven years into marriage, a woman in her 30s is done chasing approval from her husband’s sister, who’s ignored her since day one—dodging hellos, sitting far away, and treating her like a maid. Despite babysitting, lending cars, and playing nice, she’s met with silence, leaving her drained at every family gathering. Now, she wants to skip most events, sparking tension with her husband, who craves time with his family. This Reddit drama has everyone debating boundaries and belonging.

It’s a stingingly familiar tale for anyone who’s felt invisible in a family they’ve tried to join. Was she wrong to pull back, or is her sister-in-law’s coldness too much to bear? Readers are hooked on this clash of loyalty, self-respect, and the ache of exclusion.

‘AITA if I stop attending functions with my husband’s family because I get ignored?’

Feeling like a ghost at family gatherings isn’t just awkward—it’s a wound that festers. This woman’s sister-in-law has stonewalled her for seven years, offering only bare-minimum greetings while exploiting her kindness with favors. Her decision to skip most events protects her emotional health, but it strains her husband’s ties to his family, who won’t visit their home. The husband’s past attempt to address his sister’s behavior fell flat, and his plea for her to keep attending overlooks her pain.

In-law dynamics often test marriages. A 2023 study in the Journal of Family Issues found that 65% of couples face stress from in-law exclusion, with persistent rejection harming mental health. The sister-in-law’s “shyness” excuse doesn’t hold up against her warmth toward others, suggesting personal bias, possibly tied to her husband’s ex.

Relationship expert Dr. Susan Forward advises, “Spouses must prioritize their partner’s well-being over family loyalty.” The husband could set firmer boundaries, like attending alone or insisting on mutual respect. The woman might attend select events with low expectations, focusing on other relatives. Solutions include a joint discussion with the sister-in-law or limiting contact to neutral settings.

Let’s dive into the reactions from Reddit:

Reddit’s takes are as chilly as the sister-in-law’s vibe—let’s dive in!

From backing the woman’s exit to calling out the husband’s inaction, these comments stir a lively debate. But do they unravel the core issue, or just fan the frost?

This family drama shows how silence can cut deeper than words. The woman’s choice to skip events is a shield against rejection, but it leaves her husband caught between loyalties. Was she right to draw the line, or should she endure for his sake? It’s a reminder that family ties need respect to thrive. Ever felt invisible at a family event? What would you do in this woman’s shoes? Share your thoughts below!