AITAH for cutting off my family after my brother cheated on his wife and got his mistress pregnant?

Under the weight of long-buried resentments and toxic family dynamics, a fateful secret finally exploded into the open. The familiar comforts of childhood were replaced by painful memories of favoritism, abuse, and betrayal. In the midst of these turbulent emotions, the OP found herself forced to choose between silence and accountability.

Now, with her brother’s affair and his mistress’s shocking pregnancy upending their already fractured family, the decision to cut off toxic relatives became unavoidable. Determined to protect her sister-in-law and preserve her own well-being, she draws a firm boundary, setting the stage for a family drama that questions the very meaning of loyalty and justice.

‘AITAH for cutting off my family after my brother cheated on his wife and got his mistress pregnant?’

When family members engage in behavior that undermines trust and upends long-established bonds, setting boundaries can be a necessary—and painful—act of self-preservation. Relationship expert Dr. John Gottman advises, “When family dynamics become toxic, setting clear boundaries is essential for protecting your mental and emotional wellbeing.” This perspective reminds us that ending ties with destructive family members is sometimes a vital step toward healing.

In this complex scenario, the OP’s decision to cut off her brother, mother, and the mistress reflects a refusal to remain complicit in patterns of abuse and deception. By refusing to enable toxic behavior—whether through financial support or continued emotional entanglement—she is taking responsibility for her own mental health. Research on dysfunctional family systems shows that enforcing personal limits is often crucial for stopping the cycle of blame and enabling healthier relationships.

Moreover, the decision to protect her sister-in-law by planning to reveal the truth is consistent with a commitment to accountability and transparency. Such actions, though potentially disruptive, echo the advice of many experts in family psychology: honesty and boundary-setting can pave the way for meaningful recovery even amid chaos.

Heres what people had to say to OP:

Here are some hot takes from the Reddit community—raw, unfiltered, and laced with both humor and truth.

The comments reflect a fierce consensus: many believe that cutting off toxic family members is a justified move, and that the OP’s plan to warn her sister-in-law is both necessary and courageous. As opinions vary, one thing is clear—no matter how messy family ties become, truth and self-respect should never be compromised.

In the end, the decision to sever ties with toxic family members is a deeply personal one—often born out of long-standing pain and a desire for a healthier future. While the OP’s choices may seem drastic, they underscore the importance of accountability and self-care in the face of betrayal. What do you think: Is cutting off toxic relatives the only way to heal, or can forgiveness sometimes lead to restoration? Share your thoughts and experiences below—your insights might help others navigating similarly turbulent familial waters.