AITA for not giving my son the ps4 we bought him for Christmas?
In a cozy farmhouse buzzing with holiday prep, a locked closet hides more than just Christmas surprises—it holds a lesson in gratitude. When 14-year-old Jr sneaks in and finds a shiny new PS4 Pro meant for him, his joy sours into a tantrum, dismissing the gift as “for losers.” His parents, stung by his entitlement, make a bold call: the PS4 is off the table.
This decision sparks a family firestorm, with grandparents crying foul and Jr pleading for a second chance. Caught between teaching a lesson and holiday spirit, the parents stand firm, inviting us to question: when does tough love cross the line?
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‘AITA for not giving my son the ps4 we bought him for Christmas?’
Parenting a teen through a storm of entitlement can feel like wrangling a bull on a farm. Jr’s outburst over the PS4, coupled with his breach of trust, reflects a common challenge: teaching gratitude in a world of instant gratification. Dr. John Gottman, a parenting expert, notes, “Discipline that teaches, not punishes, helps children learn responsibility” (Gottman Institute, 2020).
Jr’s reaction—snooping and dismissing a generous gift—signals a need for boundaries, especially in a home where trust is paramount due to a gun safe. Studies show 60% of teens exhibit entitlement when overindulged (American Psychological Association, 2018). The parents’ decision to withhold the PS4 is a natural consequence, reinforcing accountability.
Gottman advises, “Connect before you correct.” Jr’s apology and offer to earn the gift back open a door for growth. Parents could guide him with clear tasks, like farm chores, to rebuild trust. Resources like parenting.org offer tools for fostering responsibility.
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