Father Refuses To Fund Daughter's Return To College After She Dropped Out, And They Stopped Communicating

The father didn't support her when she dropped out and now he refuses to give her money to go back.

Senad

• Published in Interesting
• November 23, 2023

In the labyrinth of family dynamics, one Reddit user has shared a poignant tale spanning over two decades. OP's journey is one marked by career ambitions, parenting clashes, and a recent twist that raises questions about financial responsibility.

The narrative begins with a divorce 23 years ago, a parting of ways prompted by conflicting priorities between OP and his ex-wife. At the heart of this divergence was OP's intense dedication to a prestigious career, a choice that laid the groundwork for the family's subsequent challenges.

Cassie, the daughter born from this union, became a centerpiece in the co-parenting saga. Custodial arrangements placed Cassie primarily with the ex-spouse, and OP's presence was relegated to weekends. Financially, OP ensured Cassie lacked for nothing. From the latest gadgets to international trips, OP spared no expense to provide a comfortable life for his daughter.

As Cassie approached college age, the clash of parenting philosophies surfaced once again. The tug-of-war over Cassie's educational choices became a battleground.

OP, with a keen eye on the future, nudged Cassie toward prestigious Ivy League institutions, an ambition curtailed by the ex-wife's desire for her to remain in-state. This compromise, a financial decision, set the stage for what would unfold.

Cassie's academic journey, initially promising, took an unexpected turn. From excelling with 18 credits and dean's list honors, she gradually withdrew, reducing her course load to a mere 6 credits.

An abrupt decision to abandon academia in favor of financial independence left OP bewildered. The exodus from education, a battle between parental expectations and personal desires, fomented tension.

In the latest chapter of this familial saga, Cassie, now 25, resurfaces in OP's life. A desire to return to education is voiced, coupled with an expectation for financial support. Here, the generational struggle intensifies. OP, having shouldered the financial burden and expectations for years, now faces a crossroads.

The question of responsibility looms large. Is OP obligated to finance Cassie's educational pursuits at this juncture?

OP and his ex-wife got divorced over 20 years ago

Their daughter, Cassie, lived with her mom and stayed with OP during weekends

OP wanted Cassie to go to an Ivy league college, but she settled for in-state

After two years in college, Cassie started to decline academically

Cassie told OP that she wanted to drop out and he was furious

Out of nowhere, Cassie contacted OP recently and dropped a bombshell on him

OP refused, saying it's not his responsibility anymore

At least one supportive parent

Dismissing the daughter's mental health issues

No trace of love

Insufferable

Awful parents

The Reddit community didn't hold back on OP, with the vast majority of Redditors saying that OP is being selfish and that he needs to step up and pay for his daughter's education.

OP's reluctance to be perceived as an ATM for Cassie's ambitions is met with mixed reviews. The tale underscores the complex nature of parental expectations, financial support, and the evolving dynamics as children transition into adulthood.

With her mother out of the picture, it's OP's time to shine and support Cassie.

Senad