AITA for telling my Mom that it was very obvious they never liked me, and that’s it’s good we don’t have to pretend anymore?

A Reddit user shared their experience of feeling like an outsider in their own family, where they were constantly mocked for their interests, which differed from those of their parents and siblings. After moving to New York City for school, the user found acceptance and support from their friends, which made them feel more loved than ever before.

During a FaceTime call, the user confronted their mom about their lack of support and emotional distance, telling her that it was clear the family never liked them. The mom was shocked by the accusation, but the user expressed that they no longer cared, as they had found the family they needed elsewhere. Read the full story below…

‘AITA for telling my Mom that it was very obvious they never liked me, and that’s it’s good we don’t have to pretend anymore?’

Mental health professionals emphasize that feeling unaccepted by one’s family can lead to long-term emotional scars. Dr. Jody Wilfong, a psychologist specializing in family dynamics, notes, “When someone repeatedly feels dismissed or mocked by those closest to them, it can compound feelings of isolation and low self-worth.”

In situations like this, a confrontation—even a heated one—can be cathartic. However, experts also caution that framing the conflict solely in terms of “not being loved” may oversimplify complex family relationships. They suggest that while it is entirely valid to stand up for oneself, the language used matters: using absolute statements such as “you never liked me” might burn bridges permanently.

Instead, Dr. Wilfong advises framing the issue around specific behaviors—for example, “I feel hurt when my interests are mocked”—which can open the door to honest conversation without the added weight of a final verdict on the relationship.

Ultimately, while the poster’s anger is understandable given years of neglect, professionals recommend that such breakthroughs in communication be approached with the hope of healing rather than complete severance, especially if there is a chance to build a more genuine relationship moving forward.

Here’s what Redditors had to say:

Many sympathize with the poster, echoing that the family’s constant disregard and ridicule left her no choice but to confront them head-on. “NTA—you deserve to be seen and respected,” one commenter writes, noting that a family that never takes an interest in your passions isn’t worth pretending to love.

Others, however, advise caution, suggesting that while the pain is real, the confrontation might have been too harsh. Some argue that a private conversation focused on specific behaviors would have been a more constructive way to address long-standing issues.

Yet the overwhelming sentiment remains that her family’s long history of indifference and mockery justifies her decision to finally stop pretending everything is okay. Many also praise her for finding a new support network in NYC, where she feels accepted and validated.