WIBTA if I send my daughter to “fat camp”?

The kitchen table was strewn with empty chip bags and soda cans, a stark contrast to the vibrant soccer field where Abby, a 14-year-old with a shy smile, found her spark. Her mother, caught in a tug-of-war with her ex-husband, watched Abby’s confidence dim as her weight climbed, a silent toll of their messy divorce. The tension boiled over when Mom suggested a weekend soccer camp, a move her ex branded as “fat camp,” igniting a fiery debate over their daughter’s health.

This wasn’t just about calories; it was about love, control, and a teen caught in the crossfire. Readers can’t help but wonder: is Mom protecting Abby or overstepping? The story unfolds with raw emotion, pulling us into a family’s struggle where food, feelings, and custody collide.

 

‘WIBTA if I send my daughter to “fat camp”?’

Navigating co-parenting conflicts over a child’s health is like walking a tightrope. Abby’s mother faces a tough reality: her ex-husband’s insistence on junk food and oversized portions is undermining their daughter’s well-being. The mother’s choice of soccer camp, which Abby enjoys, is a clever workaround, but it’s a temporary fix for a deeper issue—conflicting parenting styles.

The weight gain isn’t just a number on a scale; it’s a signal of emotional and physical strain. According to a 2021 study by the CDC, childhood obesity rates have tripled since the 1970s, with 1 in 5 teens affected, often linked to inconsistent home environments (cdc.gov). Abby’s situation mirrors this, with her father’s “clean your plate” rule clashing with Mom’s balanced approach.

Dr. Lisa Damour, a clinical psychologist and author, notes, “When parents model unhealthy habits, kids internalize those patterns, often with lasting consequences” (nytimes.com). Here, the father’s refusal to adapt risks Abby’s health, while Mom’s camp idea aligns with fostering agency through activities Abby loves.

The broader issue is co-parenting alignment. Without communication, Abby faces mixed messages, potentially leading to stress or disordered eating. Mom should continue therapy for Abby and pursue legal mediation to address dietary concerns, ensuring both parents prioritize her health. Open dialogue, perhaps guided by a counselor, could bridge this gap without escalating conflict.

Check out how the community responded:

Reddit’s hive mind didn’t hold back, dishing out candid takes with a side of humor. Here’s what the community had to say:

These opinions are spicy, but do they cut to the core of Abby’s struggle, or are they just armchair quarterbacking?

Abby’s story is a messy slice of life—divorce, diets, and a teen caught in the middle. Her mother’s soccer camp plan is a heartfelt attempt to steer her toward health, but it’s a Band-Aid on a wound that needs co-parenting stitches. What would you do if you were navigating this tug-of-war over a child’s well-being? Share your thoughts—have you faced similar battles, or do you think Mom’s approach is spot-on or over the line?