Man Faces Heat For Fulfilling Son's Wish To Help Ex's Stepdaughter Who Dropped Out Of College, Redditors React

Even though it's required of most high school graduates to take the SAT, submit college applications, and enroll in a two- or four-year institution, some students have little interest in attending college. A child who has little interest in going to college can be frightening to many parents. 

It's still important to pay attention to your child if they are old enough to tell you why they don't want to go to college. Their motivations might be issues that you both can work out, and they might still plan to attend college.

Regardless of how absurd you think your child is acting, you can develop respect and trust by being there for them.

The OP of today's story has a son with his ex. His ex got married to a single father, so she has a stepdaughter.

The OP's son and the stepdaughter have a good relationship, and he asked the OP to help her when her funding was cut off. You see, the ex's stepdaughter was overwhelmed with college and dropped out.

Her parents were furious with her and cut her off so she could reconsider and return to college. The OP obliged his son's request and took the ex's stepdaughter in, but he faced backlash from her and her husband.

Read the full story in the OP's own words as you scroll down below.

The headline

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She has always been nice to OP's son and there have never been any serious arguments

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Compassion and Support in Family Relationships

Dr. Angela White, a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School, emphasizes that compassion is crucial in family relationships, especially when one member is struggling. Supporting an ex-partner's child showcases a commitment to empathy and shared responsibility.

The father's choice to help his ex’s stepdaughter reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of family dynamics. Research indicates that compassionate actions can strengthen familial bonds, even in complex relationships.

She found a job, but it didn't pay enough to cover living in the city

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The OP just wants his son to know that she is in a safe place

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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the a-hole:

My son asked me to help his stepsister after my ex and her husband cut her off for dropping out of school and lying about it. I took her in to help her get on her feet and so she could see what life was really like with a high school diploma and no money from mom and dad. I might be the asshole for involving myself in a family argument that didn't involve me.

The Reddit post got hundreds of comments and here are a bunch of them

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She is burnt out in her late teens?

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However, family members may experience conflict when values regarding support differ. As noted by Dr. Esther Perel, a renowned couples therapist, "When family members feel their emotional needs are being overlooked, it can lead to significant tension and misunderstandings." This highlights the importance of discussing expectations around support and creating an environment where all family members feel valued and understood. Dr. Perel emphasizes that open communication is key to navigating these complex dynamics.

Her parents sound absolutely horrible

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What the OP is doing is amazing and selfless

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Creating a Supportive Family Environment

To foster a more supportive family dynamic, open communication about values and expectations is essential. Dr. John Gottman emphasizes the importance of understanding each other's perspectives in navigating complex family situations. Engaging in family discussions about support can clarify everyone's roles and responsibilities, reducing misunderstandings.

Encouraging a culture of empathy and support can create a more cohesive family environment, where all members feel heard and valued.

OP's ex and her husband are the AHs here

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The OP's helping someone who needs help

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It would have been a different situation if she had been living off the OP and doing nothing but working and supporting herself while attempting to make sense of her existence. That's a mature, responsible way to handle the matter.

Redditors say that she needs to have a conversation with her parents about what overwhelmed her. It's a crazy "parenting" tactic to drive her into homelessness in order to make a point and force her to return to college.

College is not for everyone

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The OP doesn't think they wanted her homeless

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Psychological Analysis

This situation underscores the importance of compassion in family dynamics. The father's willingness to help reflects a desire for connection and support, even amid complex relationships.

Addressing differing values around support can lead to healthier family interactions and deeper understanding.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Understanding the dynamics of compassion and support within families can help navigate complex relationships. Research supports the notion that open dialogue fosters understanding and reduces conflict. As psychological studies suggest, creating a supportive environment enhances family cohesion and relational satisfaction.