'AITA for refusing to give free tutoring to my mom's stepdaughter after years of bullying?'

A teenager, identified by the username Beneficial-Shoe1997, shared his story on the Reddit subreddit, explaining why he refused to tutor his bullying stepsister, Frankie, despite his mother and stepfather's request.

The 17-year-old revealed the ongoing bullying he endured from Frankie over the years, starting when he was 7. According to him, Frankie "bullied me for 3 years at my mom's and in school," going so far as to "break my stuff," "threaten me," and "ruin my homework."

Teen refuses to tutor bullying stepsister

The situation worsened to the point where the boy's father won full custody after it was deemed that his mother's household was unhealthy. Despite the turmoil, the boy’s mother kept some legal custody, and their interactions were limited, with visits becoming less frequent as time went on.

Now, as an adult, he finds himself in an uncomfortable position: his mother and stepfather recently reached out asking him to tutor Frankie, who is struggling academically.

The OP wrote, "My mom told me I should help out family and we can try to put "the mess" behind us."

However, the teenager responded firmly, “I would rather die than spend another second with her.”

When asked to reconsider, he blocked his stepfather and left the group chat, saying, "Don't bother me with that s**t again." His father, who is furious over the situation, supports his son’s decision.

The boy acknowledged that he might be "petty" and wondered if he’s being "unwilling to see if Frankie has/will/could change in the future." However, given the years of emotional and physical abuse he endured, he remains resolute in his decision.

Now, his family is asking him to reconsider his stance, but for the teenager, the past still looms large. He sums it up, stating, “She chose her marriage and her stepkids over me,” expressing feelings of betrayal that continue to affect his relationship with his mother.

Reddit community supports teen's decision

Reddit users overwhelmingly supported the teen's decision, emphasizing that he is under no obligation to help his tormentor, Frankie. Many pointed out that the mother failed to intervene during the years of abuse and has not taken responsibility.

A user said, "Big no to helping your tormentor. NTA. You don't owe your mom anything at this point - she did nothing to help when you were being abused (and made it worse). Just wait until you are 18 and say goodbye. Hugs!"

Another added, "You're 17. I'm sure you can block her with zero reprocussions at this point."

A third commentator remarked, "The audacity of them to ask you for help after everything Frankie did to you is mind-blowing. Stay strong please."

"NTA. Frankie bullied you relentlessly, causing severe emotional harm, and neither she nor your mom has truly taken responsibility or made amends. You’re under no obligation to tutor her, especially for free. Forgiveness and helping her are your choices, not something your mom and Ricky can pressure you into. Setting boundaries is healthy, not petty. Stand firm," one stated.

A person said, "NTA. Tell mom that as soon as the court says you no longer have to have contact with her, you will be going NC with her."

Another added, "Tell your mom you don’t know why Frankie is doing so badly in school. She should have so much more free time now that she can’t torture you with their permission. NTA."

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