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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

I'm often confused by discussions around poverty, addiction, and crime because they seem to focus heavily on society and not much on individual responsibility

276 replies

YourWaryPlumBalonz · 18/10/2026 20:07

For context, I'm autistic, grew up in a low-income household, and my dad was largely absent and neglectful. He rarely showed up, wasn't particularly involved, and wasn't much of a support. Despite that, I never got involved in crime or drugs.
Instead, I used the support that was available. I got help from charities, received government support related to my disability and employment, and eventually found a professional job. It wasn't easy, but there were people and organisations willing to help.
So what I'm struggling to understand is this: if support exists, why are so many problems framed primarily as society's fault rather than the responsibility of the individual?
I'm not saying circumstances don't matter. Clearly they do. But there seem to be plenty of people who experience poverty, disability, family breakdown, neglect, bullying, etc., and don't end up addicted, committing crimes, or repeatedly making self-destructive choices.

OP posts:
PolishKurwa · 22/10/2026 22:20

MyDucksAreHavingAParty · 22/10/2026 09:59

Its really not. And even if it is, what's your point?

I thought it's a very common thing on MN. "Oh it's the French way. Gave them watered down wine early on to teach them"

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