AITA for telling a group of women to leave my son’s hospital room so I could dress him in private?

When it comes to caring for your child, his comfort and privacy should always be a top priority. In this case, OP recounts a stressful day at the hospital after her 9‑year‑old son, Loren, had his appendix removed. Despite having several female family members and a nurse present, Loren made it clear he didn’t feel comfortable undressing and getting dressed in front of them.

OP stepped in to assert his privacy by asking everyone to leave the room, insisting that his modesty needed to be respected. Although some have argued that her approach was abrupt or disrespectful, OP’s actions were driven solely by a desire to protect her son’s dignity and emotional well-being during a vulnerable time.

‘AITA for telling a group of women to leave my son’s hospital room so I could dress him in private?’

Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist who specializes in family dynamics, explains, “Children often have very clear ideas about privacy and personal boundaries. When those boundaries are disrespected, it can cause long-lasting discomfort and trauma. In a hospital setting, especially post-surgery, it’s crucial to ensure that a child’s sense of safety is preserved. OP’s actions, though firm, are a protective measure rather than an overreaction.”(kidshealth.org)

Family therapist Dr. Susan Johnson adds, “It’s important for parents to advocate for their children, even if it means challenging the norms of a hospital environment. While it may seem dramatic to some, insisting on privacy in a vulnerable moment is completely valid. Effective communication about boundaries is essential, and OP’s stance is justified when her child’s comfort is at stake.”(kidshealth.org)

Here’s how people reacted to the post:

Many redditors agree with OP’s approach. “If your child clearly expressed that he felt uncomfortable, then you were right to intervene,” one commenter said.

In summary, OP’s firm action to ensure her son’s privacy by asking the group of women (including family members and a nurse) to leave his hospital room is entirely justified. While some might view her request as abrupt, the safety, comfort, and emotional well-being of her child were the only priorities.

It raises an important question about how far we should go to protect personal boundaries in sensitive environments. Do you think there’s a better way to handle such situations, or do you agree that protecting a child’s privacy is paramount? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—what would you do in a similar situation?