Frustrated by Roommate's Numerous Morning Alarms, Redditor Takes Revenge and Trains Him to Ignore Them All Unconsciously

Living in a dorm can be quite an adventure, but if you have troublesome roommates, it can also be a real nightmare. Although there are regulations that inform you of what you can do to protect yourself from inadequate roommates, sadly, they don't always work.

So, if the system doesn't save you, you might have to take matters into your own hands. And that's exactly what a Reddit user did.

The OP stated they were a senior in college, while their roommate was a sophomore. It was the roommate's first time living in a dorm.

The roommate was messy, often leaving his belongings on the OP's side of the room and even on the OP's bed. He took the OP's alcohol without asking, used the OP's belongings without permission, and didn't clean up the OP's dishes after using them.

The OP addressed these issues multiple times and even involved the RA regarding the alcohol theft, but to no avail. The OP explained that they had early morning responsibilities and thus woke up by 8 a.m. daily, while their roommate often stayed up until 2 a.m. playing video games.

Adding to the trouble, the roommate had a habit of setting multiple alarms in the morning with varied tones. Fed up with the roommate's behavior, the OP devised a plan.

The OP learned the roommate's alarm pattern: many alarms with identical sounds that the roommate would ignore, a few with unique sounds spaced 30 minutes apart (also ignored), and a final distinct one. Then, the OP simulated this pattern on their phone and set the alarms an hour earlier than the roommate's alarms.

As expected, the roommate reacted to these alarms in the same way he did to his own, leading him to endure double the alarms daily. After a week of this, the OP introduced random changes to the alarm sequence.

On some days, all alarms would play, but on others, only the ones the roommate typically ignored would ring. Confused, the roommate missed his alarm multiple times over two weeks.

In the end, the roommate simplified his morning routine to a single alarm and curtailed his late-night activities.

The Original Story:

Reddit

The OP Explained They Had Problems with Their Roommate:

The OP Tried Multiple Times to Solve It but to No Avail:

Navigating Shared Living Challenges

This scenario highlights the common frustrations that arise in shared living situations, particularly regarding personal routines. When one roommate's habits disrupt another's, it can lead to feelings of irritation and resentment. According to research published in the Journal of Social Psychology, unmet expectations in shared living arrangements often lead to conflict, especially when communication is lacking.

Understanding these dynamics is essential for fostering a more harmonious living environment.

The OP Was Getting Up Early in the Morning While His Roommate Tended to Play Video Games Until Late into the Night:

So, the OP Decided to Do Something and Started Observing the Roommate's Numerous Morning Alarms:

Then, the OP Set Exact Alarms on Their Phone, but an Hour Earlier Than the Roommate's Alarms:

Moreover, the act of 'training' a roommate's brain to ignore alarms reflects deeper issues related to control and respect within the relationship. A study from Stanford University suggests that feelings of powerlessness often manifest as retaliatory behaviors, particularly when individuals feel disrespected. Recognizing these emotional dynamics can help individuals navigate their interactions more effectively.

Feeling disrespected can lead to a cycle of negativity that further exacerbates conflicts in shared spaces.

Eventually, the OP Managed to Train Their Roommate to Sleep Through All the Alarms:

And It Worked:

Excellent Experiment

Reddit

Strategies for Healthy Roommate Interactions

To address conflicts over shared living spaces, open communication is vital. Employing 'I' statements can help roommates express their feelings without placing blame. For instance, saying, 'I feel overwhelmed when the alarms go off repeatedly' can foster understanding and promote dialogue. Research from the Journal of Applied Psychology emphasizes the importance of addressing conflicts directly to improve relationship satisfaction.

Establishing clear agreements about shared responsibilities can also help mitigate future conflicts and misunderstandings.

It's a Proven Method

Reddit

"I Actually Used to Do the Same as Your Roommate"

Reddit

He Learned His Lesson the Hard Way

Reddit

Furthermore, engaging in regular check-ins can enhance communication between roommates. By discussing expectations and concerns, individuals can foster a culture of respect and cooperation. A study from the University of Chicago found that roommates who engage in open dialogue about their issues report higher satisfaction in their living arrangements. Ultimately, creating an environment of accountability and respect can lead to healthier interactions.

Everyone has their own waking-up routine, and it's perfectly fine as long as it doesn't disturb others. But if their routine bothers other people, it's time for an open conversation.

Since the conversation didn't solve the OP's problems, they decided to take matters into their own hands and taught their roommate a lesson the hard way.

Psychological Analysis

This scenario exemplifies the challenges inherent in shared living situations. Recognizing the emotional dynamics and fostering open communication can help roommates address conflicts more effectively and promote healthier relationships.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, navigating shared living situations requires effective communication and mutual respect. Understanding the psychological dynamics at play can help individuals manage frustrations and build healthier relationships. By fostering open dialogue and establishing clear expectations, roommates can create a more positive living environment.