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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to worry wealth differences could affect my son's friendship?

31 replies

JuneFryer · 16/05/2026 14:35

DS is 1 year post A levels and is settled and thriving in a job he loves, earning good money.

Very proud of his achievements.

His closest friend, they have been inseparable since they met in year 7 grammar school has a very unusual carrer and is doing exceedingly well - travel, excitement well paid etc. They're still as close as ever and have just come back from holiday together.

The friend keeps wanting to treat DS to stuff. On holiday every meal was offered to be paid for drinks, club entry etc etc but DS wants to pay his own way.

To put it in perspective this friend earned in one night what DS earned in 4 months. But DS is just not having it, he's adamant that he wants to not be bankrolled.

AIBU to worry about their future friendship?

OP posts:
SisterMidnight77 · Yesterday 11:34

Worry when he’s not thriving and has no friends. A situation many parents are faced with now with their sons and daughters.

Abricot1983 · Today 09:11

This wouldn’t even get on my worry list

neilyoungismyhero · Today 09:13

No offence intended but it's nothing to do with you. They'll cope or they won't with their unequal situation.

neilyoungismyhero · Today 09:15

TheBeaTgoeson1 · 16/05/2026 15:14

what does he do? The friend

Maybe a DJ?

LowPowerModes · Today 09:15

SpinSpinSugarPuff · 18/05/2026 10:59

It happens all the time. I've got friends who earn much more and less than me. Just needs kindness and understanding to navigate.

Yes, it’s a normal facet of adult life. I’ve got friends scraping by, and friends with yachts.

Safarisagoody · Today 09:16

Do you only have friends in your financial bracket then? I find your thought process odd.

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