Can my mother take back something given to me?

[Myrrh23]

I am having a problem with my mother. Lately, whenever she wants something of my father’s (her ex-husband) or mine, she validates taking it by telling us “I gave you this” and “I gave you that” and “I did this for you.” In my point of view, she’s essentially attaching strings on her love in order to steal. Any advice?

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

I cannot comment on your mother’s motivations. There may be any number of reasons why she is doing what she is doing. Although taking your belongings against your will and without just cause is objectively stealing, she may not be intending to do that but only to reclaim what she apparently believes is hers. That doesn’t mean that you or your father have to allow her to take your possessions. If the possession is rightfully yours, you have the right to defend ownership. You might tell her, “I’m sorry, Mom, but that now belongs to me.” If she tries to take it anyway, you may have to limit her access to your possessions.

All of this assumes that you are an adult. If you are a minor living under your mother’s roof, you may have to ask your father to help you defend your possessions, as well as his.

Recommended reading:

God Help Me! These People Are Driving Me Nuts by Gregory K. Popcak