Adult Man Refuses To Share Food With A Child – Unbelievable But True

There is no denying that there are significant cultural differences among nations and regions, and this is also true when it comes to dining manners. For instance, in Southern and Eastern Europe, it is customary to offer food to all guests.

Not just offering, but bringing it to the table without even asking if they want to eat. Depending on the occasion or how long it has been since you've seen them last, the food can range from simple snacks to full-blown 20-course meals.

On the other hand, in Scandinavian countries, feeding younger guests can be considered rude. Dinner is a big family event rooted in tradition.

By feeding a child, you may disrespect its family by denying them the pleasure of that family tradition. It can be a tricky situation, so you always have to ask the parents before inviting a child who came to play with your kids to eat with you.

However, no matter what the circumstances or customs are, eating in front of a child and not sharing with them, even when they ask, is plain rude and insensitive. That's universal—in every city, country, continent, planet, galaxy...

One Redditor shared an interesting story about her boyfriend not wanting to share a meal with a child who was there to play with their kids. She confronted him, and he replied that it was none of his responsibility to feed someone else's child.

So, now she asks: "AITA for telling my boyfriend he's not allowed to eat in front of the neighbor's kid unless he's willing to share?"

Take a look at the story and the answers that came in from all around the globe:

OP asks:

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OP's boyfriend made himself a meal and refused to share it with a kid who was there to play with his kids.

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OP further explained the situation:

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The Ethics of Sharing Resources

Sharing resources, particularly food, is a complex social behavior that is often influenced by cultural and familial norms. Research in social psychology indicates that sharing behaviors are deeply rooted in our evolutionary history, where cooperation and altruism played crucial roles in survival. In this case, the adult man's refusal to share food with a hungry child raises ethical questions about responsibility and social obligation.

Studies show that empathy and compassion are critical components of altruistic behaviors, suggesting that individuals who are more attuned to the needs of others are more likely to engage in sharing, especially with vulnerable populations like children.

Redditors got even more info:

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Here is what southerners say:

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OP commented:

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This situation also highlights the psychological concept of social responsibility, which refers to the expectation that individuals will assist those in need. A behavioral psychologist points out that societal norms often dictate our willingness to share, and when these norms are violated, it can lead to moral outrage and social conflict. The adult man's refusal can be seen as an abdication of this social responsibility, which may elicit negative reactions from others.

Understanding this dynamic is essential for navigating social interactions and addressing ethical dilemmas effectively.

Even non-southerners agree:

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Eastern Europe here:

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British-Indians say:

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Exploring the Motivation Behind Selfishness

To comprehend the refusal to share, we must consider underlying psychological motivations. Research in behavioral psychology suggests that selfish behaviors often arise from fear, insecurity, or a lack of understanding about the consequences of one's actions. The adult man’s decision to withhold food may reflect deeper issues regarding his own emotional state, such as stress or anxiety about his own resources.

This perspective encourages a more compassionate view of his actions, allowing for the possibility that he may be grappling with personal challenges that inform his behavior.

Basic manners lacking here...

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World travelers say:

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Never let guests leave hungry, especially if they ask for food

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Additionally, fostering empathy can be a powerful tool in encouraging sharing behaviors. Research suggests that engaging in perspective-taking—considering the feelings and circumstances of others—can enhance one’s willingness to share and cooperate. The adult man might benefit from reflecting on the child's situation, recognizing the impact of his actions on others. This practice not only promotes altruism but can also lead to personal growth and improved relationships.

Encouraging empathy through discussions and community engagement can create a culture of sharing and mutual support.

What do New Englanders say?

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Even unfriendly northerners wouldn't do such a thing:

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Europeans also agree:

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For some people, it is physically painful not to offer food.

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Well, as we can see, OP is not the A-hole here, but her boyfriend certainly is. Not giving food to a hungry child is not only rude but actually quite cruel.

He said it is not his responsibility to feed someone else’s child. “Not my problem” is the sentence that literally destroys our society.

There is a saying that it takes a whole village to raise a child, and we couldn’t agree more. Every one of us is responsible for all the kids around us.

What kind of example is OP’s boyfriend setting for his kids? And what if it were the other way around, and it was his kids who were hungry in someone else's home?

Not feeding a hungry child. It doesn't get any lower than that...

Psychological Analysis

This scenario highlights a common ethical dilemma where individual needs clash with social responsibilities. The adult man's refusal to share food with a child raises questions about empathy and moral obligation. Understanding the motivations behind such actions can help facilitate discussions about compassion and the importance of supporting those in need, particularly vulnerable individuals like children.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

The complexities of sharing resources and social responsibility reveal significant insights into human behavior. Research supports the notion that empathy and social norms play crucial roles in our willingness to share, particularly with those in vulnerable positions. By fostering understanding and compassion, we can encourage more altruistic behaviors and strengthen social bonds within our communities.