Father Insists That Rebellious Son Must “Earn” His Christmas Gift For Breaking House Rules, Faces Accusations Of Being A “Tyrant”

“My son flipped out calling me a tyrant and has been crying to his mother who thinks that I'm an AH.”

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• November 20, 2023

Parenting is no easy task, especially when dealing with rebellious teenagers who can often test the limits set by their parents. In a recent Reddit post that has garnered attention, a concerned dad (OP) seeks advice on a situation that has sparked a heated debate within their family.

OP, whose son is 19 years old and home from college, sets the stage by laying down a simple law in his house, "No drinking allowed while living under my roof."

While OP acknowledges that he isn't overly strict, his concern stems from the fact that the boy has younger siblings who look up to their older brother. So, witnessing him intoxicated at home is something that OP wants to prevent at all costs.

However, trouble came knocking when his son was caught drinking at a party, resulting in a late-night trip to the police station. This forced OP and his wife to go and pick him up in the middle of the night, which was pretty annoying for the couple. Worst of all, OP revealed that his son showed no remorse whatsoever.

At this point, OP decided that the boy would not be getting any Christmas gifts for the year. And despite the sudden apology from the teen, OP was adamant that his decision would stand.

But OP opened the door for a compromise — he made it clear to the teen that he would need to take on extra chores and agree to some social restrictions in order to 'earn' a gift. The boy flipped and labeled OP a 'tyrant' for attempting to control his life.

As much as OP didn't flinch at his son's words, he's beginning to feel the heat from his wife. Apparently, she's on their son's side and believes that OP is taking things too far.

Amidst this family discord, the question lingers: Is OP justified in his actions, or should the spirit of the holidays be separated from the consequence of his son's actions?

The story in detail

A little background

OP’s son refused to apologize, so in response, OP made it clear that he must work for his Christmas gift as punishment

The boy flipped out and tagged OP a “tyrant.” In addition, the mom thinks OP is going too far with this

Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the story:

“NTA, your son is 19 and is participating in recreational drinking which is fine, but not when he’s living in your home.”

“He broke your house rules and the law, so yes, consequences have actions.“

“Why should you reward bad behavior? He breaks the law and thinks there aren't consequences?”

“NTA… He’s an adult and has to learn that he must face consequences for his actions.”

“NTA. Your mistake was picking him up from jail in the middle of the night. He should have stayed there for a while.”

“You gave him a fair compromise and if he can’t comply I don’t think he’s showing he deserves one.”

“NTA…If anything you are being too lenient on him.“

“Alcohol poisoning and DUIs are a serious thing. She's not seeing the bigger picture.”

“NTA, he's 19 he broke the law and got busted. I personally think no friends past daytime is a bit too harsh.”

“It doesn't matter if it’s a holiday or not, he shouldn't get rewards when he didn't earn them.”

Important edit

The Reddit community's response to this dilemma appears to lean largely in favor of OP. Many Redditors echoed the sentiment that Santa doesn't reward naughty behavior; thus, the parent's decision to hold their son accountable for his actions is a valid parenting choice.

While opinions may vary, it's evident that a majority of the community believes in teaching responsibility and consequences, even during the holiday season.

We'd love to get your thoughts on this story. Join the conversation in the comments.

Jesse