Please or to access all these features

AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To think some people secretly resent relationships that aren’t 50/50, especially when the woman’s genuinely cared for?

203 replies

CherishedNotChained · 30/10/2025 16:06

I’ve noticed a pattern in a few friendships - when they realise my relationship isn’t totally “equal” in the 50/50 sense (my husband does more of the providing, takes care of a lot of things and I handle others), they act a bit off. It’s not like I brag or make comparisons but there’s this subtle tone of judgement, like being looked after automatically means you’re “less empowered.” I actually feel respected and cherished, not controlled but I get the sense some people only approve of relationships that look perfectly “balanced” on paper.

AIBU to think some people are quietly jealous or uncomfortable when they see a woman being treated well, especially if it doesn’t fit the modern 50/50 ideal?

OP posts:
HeadNorth · 30/10/2025 16:13

'Act a bit off' 'quietly jealous' - are you sure you are not reading into your friends behaviour things that aren't there?

Bluebottlerecycling · 30/10/2025 16:12

Like Illprobs I don’t really understand the premise of your question?

I don’t think I know any relationship which is exactly 50:50 or even close to it.

Are you talking 50:50 in emotional terms, practical household labour terms, financial terms?

Illprobsregretthis · 30/10/2025 16:08

Depends what you mean. How do you define being “treated well”? Do you mean you do more housework and he pays all the bills?