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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

WW3 because I watched a TV programme

354 replies

Frances2468 · 12/06/2020 07:53

Hi everyone,

I am feeling so low today. I am feeling like I have no choice but to end my relationship. I feel so unhappy and saddened by how petty disagreements have become.

My partner is angry at me, stormed off to bed last night, and this morning asking for an apology because I watched a TV programme without him last night.

I have depression and I had been feeling well the past few months, but the past few weeks I have had a bit of a downer. Getting sick of lockdown, and all the emotions stirred from BLM, I have just been feeling very negative and sad at the world.

Anyway, last night my partner had a video call booked in with friends (1 of these friends is actually an ex FWB) so this does make me feel a bit anxious, even though I have never tried to interfere in the friendship or stop them being friends, but yes it does sometimes give me a bit of a anxious knot in my tummy when I know they are meeting up or talking on the phone or whatever.

Anyway he was upstairs in the bedroom on the video call, I was downstairs. I am not actually a big TV lover, but I was feeling a bit down so just wanted something lazy to occupy me. I decided to watch 12 years a slave, but after an hour and 10 minutes I couldn't stomach it any longer as it was very upsetting.

I went upstairs to get my PJ's on and I saw his friend on the screen and I immediately felt filled with self deprecating thoughts about myself. "She is prettier than me", "I wonder if he thinks that too" this is totally MY issue and not my partner's. I 100% recognise this. I was not going to put this on my partner, I am just trying to explain I was feeling vulnerable and not great.

I went back downstairs trying to find something to watch. I decided to watch the next episode of this cheesy reality TV programme we watch together. I just wanted something really trashy and easy going to make me feel better. I would have been happy to watch it again with my partner.

About 20 mins into the programme my partner has finished the video call and comes downstairs.

He says "I can't believe you are watching this without me!" And he is really angry. I am stunned into silence. And I really don't deal well with anger anyway and it makes me clam up. He says "I can't believe you have done that, we watch that together. I would never do that to you"

I try to explain that I just couldn't find anything else to watch.

He wants me to apologise. I feel like a kid being told off. I feel stunned at this OTT reaction.

He goes up the stairs to bed muttering that he wouldn't do that to me, and if did I would have been angry and it isn't fair.

I just think is this worth it? It is just a programme! I would have happily watched it again. I am sorry it hurt his feelings- I didnt expect that reaction at all.

This morning he says all I have to do is apologise and can we move on. I feel flabbergasted- me apologise?!?! All I did was watch a programme. I was feeling low (not that you bothered to ask me how I was feeling) and wanted to watch something trashy. Is this really worth an argument?

He says that I am patronising and I am in validating his feelings. That I have OTT reactions in the past so it is rich coming from me to say he acted out of order.

He says that I just can't handle being told off. I said I am sorry I hurt his feelings, I am not trying to invalidate him feeling disappointed or whatever but the way he handled it was just not very nice.

He says I like to play the victim.

I just feel like this is a stupid thing to get angry and punish me for! He is using this as an excuse to get angry for all the others I have done wrong to him

OP posts:
pigsDOfly · 12/06/2020 13:32

It's a bloody rubbish TV programme, how the hell can anyone get that angry about their partner watching a TV programme without them?

This sort of bollocks makes me very glad I live alone.

aSofaNearYou · 12/06/2020 13:38

thepeopleversuswork

Completely agree with that.

notacooldad · 12/06/2020 13:47

Just as an aside, does no-one else think having an "our programme" is totally twee and naff?

The idea makes me slightly nauseous tbh

I agree. I think the OP needs to look after herself and get out of a relationship that isn't helping her MH - but, yes, the idea of having an "our programme" makes me die a bit inside

Bit of a harsh reaction there! die a bit inside ffs!

There's not many programmes that both DH and I both like and generally speaking I'll let him choose as I generally don't give a shir what's on ( I'd rather MN) However there's been two in the last year that's 'our programme', They are What we do in the shadows and Ghosts. sure not everyone's cup of tea but DH will pause it if I'm in the bath or not home from work and we enjoy ' our totally twee and naff' time watching programmes even though it may make some drama lamas slightly nauseous!

thepeopleversuswork · 12/06/2020 13:56

notacooldad

I totally get that its nice to watch a good TV series together -- I do this with my bf.

It's just labelling it "our programme" made me vom. Like having an "our song": a reliable hallmark of naffness.

Anyway this is beside the point. If OP and her DP want to have an "our programme" its a free country and all. But she's not obliged to check in with him before she watches it without him and he certainly doesn't get to throw his weight around and behave like a cock.

slashlover · 12/06/2020 14:02

OP, have you entered you info on entitledto so see if you'd be due any benefits if you split up?

sillysmiles · 12/06/2020 14:11

Sounds like you way of dealing with things, any sort of conflict or emotions aren't compatible. It sounds as though to him the row was had, you've resolved it and moving on. But that's not how you are feeling. So I think there is a lot to be done if this relationship is to survive and the first step is you deciding if it is worth it and you want it.

TaraR2020 · 12/06/2020 14:15

Frances

Quite frankly, I'm shocked at some of the responses you've received - I had thought in 2020 we had moved past wife-shaming.

(And for balance, my response would be the same if a man had posted this about his female partner)

While I can understand one half of a couple being a little upset if their partner had watched something alone, that they usually watch together, it's not a big deal. Your partner behaved like a spoiled brat, end of.

Lockdown has been tough for everyone, and it may be that his reaction was enhanced by the stress of the covid situation and tension at being confined. If that's the case, he should still recognise it and apologise.

As for you, please don't apologise any more - once was enough. You also don't need to justify your choice to watch the programme to anyone on here.

I don't feel that any of us really have enough information to judge conclusively whether you're in an abusive relationship or not. But you are, clearly deeply unhappy with your relationship and lockdown will have only emphasised the reasons why. So, you ought to be receiving sympathy for your situation and advice on how to cope until you can find a way to resolve your marriage- either to heal it (if this is what you want and if it is possible) or to move on to a new phase of your life.

We all know how difficult break ups can be and it can be scary working out how to end things in such a way as to ensure your safety (as in, having a home of your own) and he'll have the same considerations. I hope that if you take this route you receive support from the community here.

Given the precariousness of your situation, I would advise you ensure you have plans in place for yourself before you initiate proceedings. Speak with a solicitor about what you might be entitled to from any shared property and line up whatever you need to ensure your independence. This will give you the confidence and strength that you need.

On the subject of abuse:
There are certainly a few things in your posts that raise flags and I do think you should consider whether you've found yourself in a controlling relationship.

You sound isolated, and your posts simply that this is not the first unreasonable blow up you've been on the receiving end of. Additionally, you mentioned his ongoing friendship with a previous FWB...I don't know if you've ever explained to him that his friendship with her makes you uncomfortable, but if so then his continued friendship suggests a lack of respect for you. If you haven't discussed it with him, then you should - calmly and in a non-accusatory way and at a time when you can both be rational about it.

Take a look at the Women's Aid and Refuge websites and do some research to see if you are subject to coercive behaviour. If so, then trust that there is a way out and you can find peace and security. There are people and organisations who can help you with everything.

If you are in an abusive relationship, then your self esteem is likely to be at rock bottom and it may feel impossible to escape; you might be dealing with feelings of failure, guilt and shame. Frances, you have nothing to feel guilty or ashamed about and you are not a failure. You will get out of it and you will change your life for the better!

To that person who suggested she should just do something about it and stop playing the victim - all very admirable I'm sure but this is an uneducated response. The consequences of abuse leave a person unable to (or to feel / believe themselves) unable to do this. It's a very frightening situation to be in and many abused people will be just as frightened of taking action than not, if not more so. Please also take a look at charities that assist those in this situation- both men and women - to improve your understanding.

It's also fairly shocking that you've received replies suggesting your behaviour is unreasonable based on the fact you battle with depression and suggestions that you seek mental health support and treatment to, in effect, make you a better partner in your tv choices, is unbelievable.

Understanding of the emotional strain both you and your other half are under is important, give and take is necessary. But you don't deserve to be spoken to like this, and you're not in the wrong for struggling with it.

You don't come across as someone who is demanding of their partner and monitors their movements etc, though I understand why some people have suggested you might need to check your own behaviour. Honestly, we don't have enough information to go on, however your posts do seem to imply that you capitulate to him a lot which would suggest that your behaviour to him is not unreasonable.

I'll also acknowledge that in temper we are all capable of saying and doing unpleasant things and that a) you might also have done so in the past and b) angry meaningless arguments at the end of 10+weeks of lockdown and financial uncertainty don't necessarily make for an abusive relationship.

Ultimately, however, it comes down to the fact you are unhappy in the relationship and unhappy with the way you are treated. I'd have suggested ways to mend your relationship, such as couples counselling, except that it sounds as if you have already reached the point of no return.

In which case, gather support from friends and family, take advice and look to the practical steps which will help you leave. It will at times, feel overwhelming but there is always a solution to the problems you encounter, even if you haven't seen it yet.
Take your time, keep your chin up and remember that you are strong enough to see this through.

And don't let anyone, ever, make you feel like a bad person for watching a tv programme or film, for having depression or for overhearing a group of friends chat in close confines to you.

Best of luck!

TheExterminatingAngel · 12/06/2020 14:15

@notacooldad Sorry - I didn't mean to sound melodramatic. However, I have always had a complete horror of "our song" and that sort of thing. It would make me want to run very, very fast in the opposite direction if anyone started that stuff.

I occasionally watch black and white films with DP (we don't have a TV, but we watch via the computer), but it would never cross either of our minds that we always had to do it together or ask permission before doing it alone. I would feel instantly suffocated, and I think DP would too.

Jkslays · 12/06/2020 14:26

@Frances2468

Sorry, I am at work and can't respond to every message. I am under the care of a community mental health team. I am getting help for my MH.
I’ve a feeling your mental health will improve when you leave this tosser.

And it really isn’t ok that’s he having private chats with a girl he used to shag

Jkslays · 12/06/2020 14:29

@thepeopleversuswork

notacooldad

I totally get that its nice to watch a good TV series together -- I do this with my bf.

It's just labelling it "our programme" made me vom. Like having an "our song": a reliable hallmark of naffness.

Anyway this is beside the point. If OP and her DP want to have an "our programme" its a free country and all. But she's not obliged to check in with him before she watches it without him and he certainly doesn't get to throw his weight around and behave like a cock.

This
Jkslays · 12/06/2020 14:31

@Vivi0

As the daughter of a mother who is passive aggressive and would do things like that to “punish” my father, rather than just having a conversation with him, and when he lost his temper, would cast herself into the victim role and he the perpetrator, your post raises so many red flags for me.

The amount of posters so quick to jump to the conclusion that your partner is the aggressor makes me really worry for my two sons finding themselves in abusive relationships like this.

And If I was you I’d probably seek help at the mental trauma you’ve obviously still carrying around before you demonise all females that go near your sons
Jkslays · 12/06/2020 14:38

He was upstairs having a private conversation with his ex shag.

He cane down and kicked off with OP because she was watching a program they usually watch together.

He then forced her to apologise.

She doesn’t feel it’s right, her MH is playing Up and wants to leave.

Half the posts on this thread -

“You were out of order watching a program with out him’

“Your MH is draining, he is probably fed up with you’’

“ why are you not admitting of your getting MH treatment”

“Oh I bet he feels really told off now, joint programs are so important’

Honestly WTF?

Frances it doesn’t feel right because your instincts are telling you it’s not right. Listen to them. You don’t have to be with this person if you don’t want to Flowers

slashlover · 12/06/2020 14:44

And it really isn’t ok that’s he having private chats with a girl he used to shag

It was a group chat, or are you saying that OP must be present every time he talks to his friend?

Vivi0 · 12/06/2020 15:14

And If I was you I’d probably seek help at the mental trauma you’ve obviously still carrying around before you demonise all females that go near your sons

Thank you for your concern but I’m doing really well.

I am a huge believer in counselling and therapy, they have made such a difference to my life. So I’m already ahead of you there, but thank you for your kind recommendation.

I know what abuse is and I know what it looks like. The OP’s post is littered with references to passive aggressive abuse perpetuated by her.

My sons have nothing to worry about from me, but they do from women like the OP and women like you falling over themselves to defend her.

Iggi999 · 12/06/2020 15:20

I don't watch ahead - that's been in jokes I've seen, it's obviously a thing that annoys other people!
But that is just the tiniest part of whatever is going on between you two. I suspect your dh was more annoyed that he knows you were annoyed about him speaking to the ex.
We need to be kinder to each other in lockdown, not less. I'm glad you are getting support OP and hope your partner can get more on board with helping you, but it's hard for him too.

MariaDingbat · 12/06/2020 15:21

You used the word 'punish', that he punished you. Loving partners don't punish each other, so this is a bit concerning. Is it something that happens a lot? You do something that annoys him and he punishes you? Because if so, that isn't a healthy relationship trait.

I'm glad to hear you're getting help with your MH, looking into ways to communicate your needs clearly and strongly might be helpful too. You deserve to be happy, keep reminding yourself of that.

vanillandhoney · 12/06/2020 15:24

And it really isn’t ok that’s he having private chats with a girl he used to shag

He's having a group chat with his friends, one of whom happens to be someone he slept with.

Are you saying OP has to be present every single time he wants to talk to his friend? Or should he never be allowed to speak to the people he's slept with?

If OP doesn't trust him, then they shouldn't be together. But plenty of people have friendships with ex-partners or people they've slept with in the past. It's not wrong.

thepeopleversuswork · 12/06/2020 15:25

Vivi0

"The amount of posters so quick to jump to the conclusion that your partner is the aggressor makes me really worry for my two sons finding themselves in abusive relationships like this."

Sorry... let me get this straight: she watches a TV programme that they have previously watched together without consulting him first. He has a world-class tantrum about it and demands that she apologise to him for this.

She is abusive? For failing to comply with his demand that she consult him before switching the television on?

crispysausagerolls · 12/06/2020 15:29

He says "I can't believe you are watching this without me!" And he is really angry. I am stunned into silence. And I really don't deal well with anger anyway and it makes me clam up. He says "I can't believe you have done that, we watch that together. I would never do that to you

People are calling this abuse?! Really?! Abuse!! One person getting angry because they are annoyed at the other person and making some very tame comments eg “I wouldn’t do this to you”. This is abuse?! What the fuck.

Of course it’s not nice to watch a show your partner and you watch together, without them. He was annoyed. Fine. That’s what happens. You are considering dumping him
over it and write the post in such a “woe is me poor victim” way that I can’t have any sympathy for you.

What a load of emotional turmoil over nothing. Christ.

Vivi0 · 12/06/2020 15:41

@thepeopleversuswork, yes, it is passive aggressive abuse. As I said, the OP’s post is littered with references to it.

sillysmiles · 12/06/2020 15:45

Oh the whole exchange this is the bit that stands out to me He goes up the stairs to bed muttering that he wouldn't do that to me, and if did I would have been angry and it isn't fair. which to me sounds like he has been on the receiving end a few times.

Either way you don't sound happy and should consider what to do from here.

Sizedoesmatter · 12/06/2020 15:54

People on here need to stop jumping on the abuse bandwagon so quickly from just a small snippet of a relationship.

I don't see abuse or gaslighting at all from this. I see two people overreacting and going on like children. I see a pretty shit relationship dynamic, however, automatically blaming a man on domestic abuse and encouraging the OP to see herself as a victim from this is bloody ridiculous.

Also, a few years ago I watched an episode of game of thrones without DH, I was up late and it used to be on at like 2am, so I watched it with a friend. He was pretty disappointed as we always watched it together. However, it was more of a 'you're a dick' type situation. He didn't fight with me over it, and I watched it again with him happily. I don't think it was ever even mentioned again. So yes his reaction was stupid. But people overreact to things, it doesn't mean he is abusive. It could be a case of him being sick to death of the victim card being pulled. It could be that he was tired or emotional and just snapped. He should have apologised straight away, and I don't believe the op should have apologised for watching the show, but I do think she behaved extremely childishly also.

If you aren't happy, leave. Don't drag it out and make the both of you miserable, or mope around the house because his apology wasn't good enough for you and you want to keep arguing until you feel satisfied that he's sorry enough for snapping. That's ridiculous and I wouldn't put up with it from a partner 🤷‍♀️

thepeopleversuswork · 12/06/2020 15:55

crispysausagerolls

"Of course it’s not nice to watch a show your partner and you watch together, without them. He was annoyed. Fine. That’s what happens."

Really, really, not fine. Not what happens in my house. If it happens in yours and you think this is normal you need to raise the bar a bit.

It may fall short of being "abuse" -- we don't know enough about their relationship to know.

But at the very least its him being an arsey twat with her because she chose to watch a TV programme without him. In what universe is it reasonable to fly off the handle because someone does this. I keep coming back to this point. Why do so many people think this is normal and that it justifies his behaviour?

billy1966 · 12/06/2020 16:05

OP,
You sound like a deeply unhappy woman.

He sounds like a big part of your unhappiness.

Well done for acknowledging that you do not feel happy.

I think you are done.

That's ok too.

Start thinking about making a plan for yourself without him.

Wishing you well.

Sizedoesmatter · 12/06/2020 16:07

I mean... You say you both apologised, and that he's now behaving like it's all sorted. If you both apologised then it should be sorted? Why on earth are you trying to drag out such a stupid and petty argument?

What exactly do you want? You're annoyed now that he's being nice? Do you want him to get on his knees and fucking grovel? The fact that you want to drag it out speaks volumes to me. Other people may see differently, and I could definitly be wrong. But I can't deal with people victimising themselves and moping around, its unbearable.