WIBTA for cu***ng off our daughter financially until she takes an active part in the family?

Jonas Bergström

A loving couple watches helplessly as their daughter, once so close and communicative, drifts into silence, leaving them grasping for answers. Despite their generous support through college expenses and a monthly allowance, she has become a ghost in their lives—unresponsive, ungrateful, and distant.

Their hearts ache not from financial strain but from the cold void of a relationship unraveling without warning. The absence of simple acknowledgments or warmth cuts deeper than any argument, leaving them questioning if their care has been met with indifference or if they have somehow lost their child to an invisible wall of silence.

WIBTA for cu***ng off our daughter financially until she takes an active part in the family?
'WIBTA for cu***ng off our daughter financially until she takes an active part in the family?'

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AFTER THIS STORY DROPPED, REDDIT WENT INTO MELTDOWN MODE – CHECK OUT WHAT PEOPLE SAID.:

Users didn’t stay quiet — they showed up in full force, mixing support with sharp criticism. From calling out bad behavior to offering real talk, the comments lit up fast.

After reading through the Reddit comments on this story, it's clear that many people sympathize with the parents' frustration about feeling ghosted by their daughter despite their financial support. Commenters often stressed the importance of communication and mutual respect in parent-child relationships, especially when money is involved. Some suggested the daughter might be overwhelmed or going through her own struggles, while others felt the parents were justified in considering cutting off support if the lack of engagement continued.

In my opinion, while the parents' feelings are understandable, it might be worth trying one more honest and direct conversation to clarify expectations and feelings on both sides before making a final decision. College years can be challenging for young adults, and open communication could help bridge the gap rather than deepen it. Cutting off financial support without resolution risks further alienation, so a thoughtful approach might lead to a healthier dynamic for everyone involved.

JB

Jonas Bergström

Digital Behavior Analyst & Tech-Life Balance Advocate

Jonas Bergström is a Swedish behavior analyst focused on the impact of digital technology on mental health. With a Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction, he explores how smartphones, apps, and social media shape our relationships and habits. Jonas promotes mindful tech use and healthier screen time boundaries.

Digital Habits Tech-Life Balance Behavioral Design