AITA for telling my sister to stop expecting me to play baby daddy?
In a shared household with her twin sister, who is struggling with the challenges of being a new mom, a 29-year-old woman has been exceptionally generous—handling night feedings, covering baby expenses, and managing childcare. However, as her sister’s situation began to stabilize, expectations grew. When asked to take her nephew, Lucas, to a hospital appointment, the narrator firmly stated,
“I’m not Lucas’s dad,” highlighting that she shouldn’t have to change her life to meet these extra demands. This decisive boundary-setting has sparked a heated family dispute, raising questions about where to draw the line between supportive family obligations and preserving one’s own well-being.
‘AITA for telling my sister to stop expecting me to play baby daddy?’
Family therapist (Dr. Susan Johnson) emphasizes that setting clear boundaries is essential when one’s responsibilities begin to overwhelm personal well-being. In this case, the poster’s shift from a supportive sister to a de facto caregiver and financial backer has reached its breaking point,
especially when it interferes with her job and quality of life. Experts warn that expecting someone to “play baby daddy” is not only unfair but also emotionally draining and can lead to resentment and burnout. The key takeaway is the importance of balanced support and open communication about shared responsibilities in family living situations.
These are the responses from Reddit users:
Here are some hot takes from the Reddit community—candid and humorous. One redditor remarked, “Your sister is taking advantage of you; it’s time to reclaim your own life before you’re buried under endless baby bills!” Another commented, “Setting boundaries is essential. You’re not her personal babysitter or financial ATM.
A third user noted, “I get that family means helping out, but when you’re asked to basically become a parent for someone else’s child, it’s a clear sign to re-evaluate the situation.” Finally, another popular comment summed it up: “If you keep letting this happen, you’ll eventually be left with nothing but resentment—and no time for yourself.”
This story is a vivid reminder that while family support is invaluable, it shouldn’t come at the expense of your own well-being. Our poster’s decision to draw a line by saying she won’t “play baby daddy” is not about a lack of love—it’s about maintaining healthy boundaries in a demanding situation. Balancing generosity with self-care is crucial, and sometimes, tough conversations are necessary to prevent long-term resentment.
What would you do if you found yourself caught between family obligations and preserving your own life? Have you ever had to set boundaries with a loved one? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments—your insights might just help someone else facing a similar dilemma.