Fed-Up College Student Teams Up With His Second Roommate To Teach Their Truant Housemate A Lesson About Courtesy By Blocking His Internet Access

He was in his junior year of college when a Redditor had the misfortune of living with a terrible roommate. OP lived off-campus with two roommates.

Roommate #1 was a great guy. He respected his roommates and their shared space and attended his classes — he and OP are still friends.

The opposite was true for Roommate #2. The 26-year-old was unpleasant to be around, didn't clean, and failed to attend most, if not all, of his classes.

Roommate #2 slept in while OP and Roommate #1 went to campus. He played Star Wars or blasted loud music when he wasn't asleep.

He wasn't a big believer in good hygiene either. Imagine his mood when OP got home to a dirty and loud house caused by a slovenly roommate.

He also had a knack for interrupting OP while he was studying. He treated OP like a grammar guide who taught him about homonyms.

He played his online game well into the night, yelling at virtual stormtroopers while his roommates crammed for upcoming exams.

OP took refuge in his girlfriend's apartment to avoid dealing with his terrible roommate. He and Roommate #1 tried to have reasonable discussions with Roommate #2 about his disruptive habits, but to no avail.

OP's patience ran out when Roommate #2 pulled his usual antics the night before OP's important exam.

u/RivyGucci

OP asked Roommate #2 to be more courteous while playing his game because he had a big exam the following morning.

u/RivyGucci

OP fell asleep and was woken by the sound of virtual lightsabers. He texted his roommate to keep it down. Nothing changed.

u/RivyGucci

The Psychology of Conflict in Shared Living Situations

Conflict in shared living situations often stems from differing lifestyles and expectations. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology indicates that unclear boundaries can lead to misunderstandings and resentment among roommates. Understanding the psychological principles behind these conflicts can help individuals navigate them more effectively.

When individuals feel their needs are not being met, they may resort to extreme measures, such as blocking internet access, as a way to regain a sense of control in the situation. This reaction, while understandable, often exacerbates conflict rather than resolving it.

OP gave up any hope of sleeping at 4 a.m. He confronted his roommate, who made excuses. He decided to just prepare for his exams.

u/RivyGucci

OP failed his test. He returned home to find his roommate still playing and the house just as dirty and smelly. He was done babying another adult.

u/RivyGucci

OP found the username and password for their Wi-Fi router. He restricted Roommate #2's access to the internet.

u/RivyGucci

Additionally, the stress of living in close quarters can significantly impact mental health. According to research from the American Psychological Association, chronic stress can lead to negative emotional and physical health outcomes. Finding constructive solutions, rather than engaging in retaliatory behaviors, is essential for maintaining a positive living environment.

Effective communication and the establishment of clear boundaries can help reduce tension and foster a more supportive atmosphere among roommates. Developing a roommate agreement outlining shared responsibilities may alleviate misunderstandings.

He included Roommate #1 in his petty revenge. Together, they took turns disrupting Roommate #2's ability to play his games.

u/RivyGucci

Roommate #2 went to the library to play his game. He finally learned how to clean at home. Living with him became more bearable. He never figured out that his roommates were behind the fluctuating internet connection.

u/RivyGucci

He was determined to behave like a child. OP just followed his lead.

AdevilSboyU

The Importance of Setting Boundaries

Setting clear boundaries is essential in shared living situations. Research from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology shows that individuals who communicate their limits are less likely to experience conflicts. Establishing guidelines around shared responsibilities can help roommates feel respected and valued.

Regular check-ins about household expectations can also promote open dialogue and prevent issues from escalating into resentment or retaliation.

Count your lucky stars you didn't have to go beyond restricting his access, OP.

dnovantrix, RivyGucci

He certainly didn't help OP's chances of passing, that's for sure.

pandizlle, RivyGucci

Roommate #2 deserved what he got after what he put OP and Roommate #1 through.

jimbozak

Furthermore, fostering an atmosphere of respect and cooperation can significantly enhance the roommate experience. Engaging in collaborative activities, such as shared meals or recreational time, can strengthen bonds and create a more positive living environment. When roommates feel connected, they are more likely to work through conflicts amicably.

Ultimately, addressing the root causes of conflict through understanding and communication can lead to healthier relationships and a more enjoyable living situation.

Unlike Roommate #2, OP is a decent person capable of making friends who aren't suspicious of him. At that point, they had a common enemy to defeat.

JohnnyDrama68, RivyGucci

OP had to embrace the dark side to defeat the monster they created.

Reddit

Good to know that modern solutions also work on neanderthals.

HeyGuysImJesus

The fact that Roommate #2 wasn't banned from playing his games at the library, a place where silence is expected, meant he was capable of keeping his noise levels down the entire time. He just didn't care about the two people he lived with.

The question is, did Roommate #2 ever graduate from college? Is he still plaguing their college town, looking for roommates to recruit to the dark side?

Psychological Analysis

This scenario highlights the challenges of cohabitation, particularly when personal habits clash. Addressing frustrations directly and collaboratively is essential to preventing resentment from building up. Encouraging open communication can transform the living experience into a more positive and supportive one.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Conflict in shared living situations often arises from unmet expectations and unclear boundaries. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, emphasizes that "open communication is key to resolving conflicts and fostering understanding among roommates." By establishing clear guidelines and prioritizing respect, individuals can enhance their living dynamics. As noted on her professional website, "setting boundaries and discussing expectations can lead to a more harmonious environment" (Dr. Ramani Durvasula).