The original post: /r/amitheasshole by /u/bluezberries on 2025-02-19 12:01:04.

AITAH for Not Speaking to My Boyfriend’s Parents Even Though I Can Talk?

I (19F) have selective mutism, which means that in certain social situations, especially under stress, I physically cannot speak. My boyfriend (22M) knows this and has always been understanding. However, his parents recently invited us over for dinner, and things did not go well.

I had never met them before, and as soon as we arrived, I felt overwhelmed. My body just shut down, and I couldn’t get any words out. I smiled, nodded, and used gestures, but I didn’t say a single word the entire evening.

His parents were polite at first but got visibly frustrated. His mom asked me multiple times if I was okay, and his dad made a joke about me being “too good to talk to them.” My boyfriend tried to explain, but they seemed to take it personally.

After we left, my boyfriend said he understood but admitted it was awkward and that he wished I had “at least tried” to say something. Later, his mom sent him a text saying she found my silence “rude” and that she’s worried I’m being disrespectful.

Now I feel guilty. I didn’t choose to be silent, but I also know first impressions matter. AITAH?