OP was raised with the mantra “nothing is free,” working from 15 and paying off college debt with a scholarship and job bonus.
Her brother, however, was coddled, given a car, and now wants to attend an Ivy League school without a scholarship, expecting OP to help pay.
OP refused, citing their parents’ teachings, angering them. Was OP wrong for standing her ground?
This story explores family favoritism and personal responsibility. Did OP go too far? Let’s dive into the details and see what the online community thinks.
This story highlights family favoritism, possibly due to gender, a “golden child” dynamic, or parents’ improved finances.
Expecting OP to fund her brother’s education, when she received no such help, is unfair and potentially damaging to sibling and parental bonds.
Family psychologist Dr. John Gottman notes, “Favoritism in families can fracture sibling and parent-child relationships” (The Gottman Institute).
OP is justified in maintaining financial boundaries, especially given her self-reliance. The parents should support the brother or let him take loans or attend the state school.
OP could consider a calm discussion to address the perceived unfairness, but she shouldn’t feel pressured to pay. This case underscores the need for fairness and communication in families.
Check out how the community responded:
Reddit unanimously supports OP, criticizing the parents’ favoritism and asserting the brother’s education is not her responsibility. Many suspect gender bias or a “golden child” dynamic. Here’s a roundup of reactions.
Many back OP and condemn favoritism.
Some emphasize personal responsibility.
![[Reddit User] − NTA. His dream to fund. They are completely out of line putting this on you.](https://dailyhighlight.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/wp-editor-1758769733545-16.webp "Sibling Refuses To Fund Brother’s Ivy League Dream, Cites Parents’ Mantra")
A few suggest responses.
![[Reddit User] − NTA. It is not your responsibility to send your brother to school.](https://dailyhighlight.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/wp-editor-1758769752523-26.webp "Sibling Refuses To Fund Brother’s Ivy League Dream, Cites Parents’ Mantra")
This woman’s refusal to fund her brother’s Ivy League dream, wielding her parents’ “nothing is free” mantra, exposed their favoritism and sparked a family clash. Was it a righteous boundary, or a bridge-burning jab?
With Reddit cheering and her finances secure, this saga’s a lesson in standing up to unfair expectations. How would you tackle parental double standards? Share your thoughts below!
