Entitled Mom Expects Friend To Deliver 3 Kids to Her Doorstep After Babysitting Them On Short Notice For Two Weeks

Entrusting the care of our children to a friend is a significant gesture of trust. After all, our kids are what we treasure most in life.

But what happens when the person babysitting seems to care more about the kids than the parents do? Well, that's what happened to u/EphemeralPirate, who shared her story in the r/AITA (Am I The A**hole?) subreddit.

She explained that she agreed to babysit her friend's three children for two weeks while the parents went overseas after their original babysitting arrangements fell through. The kids were all under the age of eight at the time.

The OP says the children were no trouble, and they played well with her kids, so everything went smoothly. However, on the last day, the parents' flight was delayed, and they arrived home at 10:30 PM instead of 2:30 PM.

The original plan was for the parents to come and collect the kids after they had landed, so the OP suggested they stick to that plan, even though it would be late. But the parents asked the OP to drop the kids off at their house instead.

The Redditor refused, as she had to get up early the next day. She told them they could collect their kids anytime, even during the night, or alternatively, she would be happy to drop them home in the morning.

The OP's friend said she really missed her kids but was too exhausted to drive 30 minutes to pick them up. So she asked if the OP would drop the kids off at their house at 8 PM since they had a security system.

The OP stated she would not feel comfortable leaving the kids home alone at night and was shocked that her friend would be okay with that. In the end, the OP's significant other agreed to take the kids home and stay with them until their parents returned.

Now the OP's friend isn't speaking with her, so she's wondering if she was the a**hole here. Keep scrolling to see how people reacted.

Redditor asked if she's an a**hole for refusing to leave a friend's children home alone.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

She explained that she agreed to babysit her friend's three children for two weeks while the parents went overseas after their original babysitting arrangements fell through.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

The OP says the children were no trouble, and they played well with her kids, so everything went smoothly.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

Entitlement and Its Roots in Parenting

Dr. Rachel Smith, a child psychologist, observes that entitlement often develops from parenting styles that do not set clear boundaries or expectations.

Her research indicates that when children are not taught the value of reciprocity and responsibility, they may grow into adults who expect others to cater to their needs without consideration.

Studies in the Journal of Child Psychology highlight the importance of teaching children about give-and-take in relationships.

The original plan was for the parents to come and collect the kids after they had landed, so the OP suggested they stick to that plan.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

The Redditor refused, as she had to get up early the next day.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

She told them they could collect their kids anytime, even during the night, or alternatively, she would be happy to drop them home in the morning.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

This scenario illustrates a common issue in adult relationships where one party expects others to fulfill their obligations without reciprocation.

Psychologists suggest that such behaviors stem from a lack of awareness about the impact of one’s demands on others, often leading to frustration and conflict.

Understanding this entitlement can help individuals reassess their expectations and develop healthier relationship dynamics.

The OP's friend said she really missed her kids.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

But she was too exhausted to drive 30 minutes to come and pick them up.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

The OP stated she would not feel comfortable leaving the kids home alone at night.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

The Importance of Reciprocity in Friendships

Reciprocity is a fundamental principle in maintaining healthy relationships, and its absence can lead to resentment and burnout.

Research from Harvard University emphasizes that mutual support and understanding are key to sustaining friendships over time.

In relationships lacking reciprocity, individuals often feel unappreciated and may withdraw emotionally, leading to further complications.

Security cameras are not a good enough replacement for an adult.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

In the end, the OP's significant other agreed to take the kids home and stay with them until their parents returned.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

Now the OP is wondering if she was the a**hole here.

Reddit/EphemeralPirate

To address these dynamics, open conversations about expectations and responsibilities are crucial.

Experts recommend setting clear boundaries and discussing what each party can realistically provide to avoid feelings of resentment.

Therapeutic interventions can help individuals articulate their needs and develop a clearer understanding of each other's perspectives.

Here's how people reacted.

Reddit/okilz

"She's questioning your parenting choices, not the other way around."

Reddit/MythologicalRiddle

The audacity of these people!

Reddit/Cheeseburgers_

Navigating Expectations in Parenting

Parenting is a key area where expectations can become distorted, particularly when caregivers fail to model healthy boundaries.

Studies indicate that children who observe parental entitlement are likely to replicate these behaviors in their own relationships.

Encouraging children to understand the importance of mutual support can foster healthier interactions in their future relationships.

"She should be kissing OP's feet."

Reddit/21stCenturyJanes

"This lady sounds insane."

Reddit/No-Abies-1232

"I would lose her number."

Reddit/Hairy-Dark9213

Creating a culture of reciprocity requires intentional efforts from both parties. Engaging in open discussions about each other's needs and expectations fosters understanding and reduces entitlement.

Research shows that relationships thrive when both parties feel valued and understood, leading to greater satisfaction and emotional connection.

"The audacity of this mother is insane."

Reddit/msplace225

"That woman is not your friend. She's a user."

Reddit/Emotional_Bonus_934

"You did the right thing."

Reddit/DesperateinDunharrow

What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you think the OP should have just done what the parents asked, or did she do the right thing by refusing to leave the kids alone?

We would love to hear your opinions on this. You can share your thoughts with us in the comment section.

Psychological Analysis

This situation reveals a significant imbalance in expectations within the friendship. The mother's entitlement reflects a lack of understanding about the demands placed on her friend, which can strain relationships if not addressed openly.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Ultimately, addressing entitlement and fostering reciprocity in relationships requires open communication and a willingness to understand each other's perspectives.

As highlighted by psychological research, nurturing a sense of mutual support is essential for sustaining healthy connections over time.