Shocking Family Dynamics Revealed

In a heart-wrenching tale that has gone viral online, a young woman from Singapore has opened up about her tumultuous relationship with her mother, revealing an overwhelming demand for financial support that began in childhood and continues into her adulthood.

A Frugal Childhood

The woman took to Reddit’s r/SGexams forum to share her experiences, stating, 'My mum only gave birth to me for money.' She recounted a childhood marked by extreme frugality, leaving her underweight and socially isolated. Throughout her primary and secondary education, her mother controlled her finances closely, allocating a meager $10 weekly for pocket money—money that would invariably vanish by Sunday.

Her meager meals consisted primarily of bread or a shared bowl of rice, and school supplies were often deemed unnecessary expenditures. 'Even for cooking class, my mum wouldn’t give me money unless there was an alternative,' she lamented, highlighting the emotional toll this behavior took on her.

Struggles in Polytechnic

As she transitioned to polytechnic, the situation didn’t improve. With only $25 for weekly spending, she was pressured to skip meals to save money, even being reprimanded for wanting to purchase a full meal rather than an individual burger. 'I was told to limit my meals to $5,' she noted, revealing the absurdity of her mother’s savings mindset.

A Demanding Financial Situation

Once her daughter started working, the mother demanded a complete handover of her earnings, including any bonus awards or gifts she received. 'I was made to feel guilty about spending any of my paycheck, even after all the sacrifices I had made through my childhood,' the young woman shared.

The pressure has only intensified as she approaches graduation. With no money saved and culminating financial expectations, the mother insists on a $500 monthly allowance post-graduation—a demand that left her feeling trapped and resentful. 'She made it clear that education was merely a stepping stone to making money,' she stated despairingly.

Unequal Treatment

Adding to her distress is the stark contrast between her upbringing and that of her older brother. 'He’s treated entirely differently; he’s overweight, has his university tuition paid for, and doesn’t have to work as my mum spoils him,' she explained. 'It’s like I’m the family’s scapegoat.'

Seeking Help

As a result of the emotional trauma, the young woman is now seeking counseling. However, her mother misrepresents this to friends, claiming she is sending her daughter to enhance social skills instead of addressing the profound psychological impact of her upbringing.

Community Support and Broader Implications

In the comments section, Redditors echoed her sentiments, expressing sympathy and urging her to escape her toxic environment. 'You’re not her child; you’re her hostage. Move out as soon as you can,' one user advised.

Furthermore, this case shines a light on a larger trend. A recent survey by The Straits Times found that about 75% of Singaporean children give their parents a monthly allowance, typically ranging between $300 and $500—an expectation that varies vastly among families. Family life specialists recommend discussing financial responsibilities openly to establish realistic expectations and maintain healthy family dynamics.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the young woman's story serves as a crucial reminder of the complex and often painful realities many face in familial relationships. By sharing her experience, she hopes to not only find healing but also empower others in similar situations to seek financial independence and mental well-being.