AITA because I stopped cooking dinner for my husband and son?

When a home cook’s efforts are met with endless criticism, how much is too much? A mother’s breaking point over picky eating sparks a family standoff—and a debate about fairness in household labor.

‘ AITA because I stopped cooking dinner for my husband and son?’

Expert Opinions

Picky Eating and Family Dynamics
Dr. Natalie Mokari, pediatric nutritionist: “Children often mirror parental behaviors, even non-biological ones. OP’s son mimicking his stepfather’s pickiness is a cry for attention or a misguided attempt to bond. Consistent exposure to diverse foods without pressure can help, but it requires both parents to model openness.”

Gender Roles in Household Labor
A 2023 Sociological Review study found “women still shoulder 65% of household cooking duties, even in dual-income homes. Resentment builds when partners weaponize incompetence or refuse to participate equally.”

The Mental Load of Meal Planning
Therapist Dr. Emily Anhalt: “Cooking isn’t just physical labor—it’s emotional labor. OP’s husband dismissing her efforts while refusing to cook himself perpetuates inequity. Her strike isn’t laziness; it’s a boundary to preserve her mental health.”

Here’s what Redditors had to say:

Community Opinions

Summary: Redditors overwhelmingly side with OP, calling her NTA. Key themes:

• “Cook for yourself! Let them eat frozen meals.”
• “Picky eaters can make their own damn food.”
• “Your husband’s hypocrisy is infuriating.”