From the Confessional: Calling Out the “Karens” of the World

We all know a “Karen.” They’re loud, self-important, and often oblivious to the embarrassment they cause their children. Sadly, many exhibit ignorance and even racism. If your name happens to be Karen, don’t worry—this isn’t about you, unless you act like an entitled adult version of a high school mean girl.

However, anyone can embody “Karen” behavior, regardless of their name. Here’s the telltale sign: If you’re calling the police on kids for running a lemonade stand because they lack a “permit,” congratulations—you’re a Karen. If you report a neighbor recovering from illness to the HOA because their lawn is overgrown, you’re definitely a Karen. And if you cheat to help your kid cut in line for the cheerleading squad while others play by the rules, you guessed it—you’re a Karen.

The worst kind? The ones who call the cops on a Black person simply for existing near them—those are truly the most reprehensible “Karens.”

Chances are, you have a Karen in your life—perhaps a distant relative you only see at family gatherings or a neighbor who complains about your kids playing outside. We all encounter them, but let’s strive never to become one ourselves.

I cut ties with you because you’re insufferable. An entitled, ignorant Karen who thinks that following trends equates to intelligence and superiority. Happy now?

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Every time I hear someone criticize younger generations as spoiled, I can’t help but chuckle. I work in customer service, and let me tell you, the majority of the rudest customers are 55 and older. Thanks, Karen, for setting the standard.

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I moved to the countryside to escape annoying neighbors, only for a city dweller to move in next door and continuously complain about the nearby farms having—gasp—animals! Go back to your city, Karen; you’re not the HOA president here!

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Karens often display rudeness, racism, and ignorance. They disrespect service workers, demand special treatment, and whine the moment something doesn’t meet their specific preferences.

When I mentioned we’re adopting, I’ve been asked why we didn’t just try the old-fashioned way. Well, Karen, that’s because the biological parents are deceased! Just say “congratulations” when someone announces their adoption plans.

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Why does it matter if someone chooses a different lifestyle? I prefer working from home, but if being a stay-at-home mom or working in an office suits others, good for them, Karen. Get a life that works for you!

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I wish I could stop getting hate for wanting to send my child to preschool in the fall. She’s ready for school, and with both parents working, she’d be in daycare or school anyway. Sorry, stay-at-home Karen, not everyone can just pause life and homeschool.

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Karens also intrude where they don’t belong, turning unrelated matters into their business. No one taught them to “say something nice or say nothing at all,” and it shows.

After months of virtual schooling, kids are finally back in the classroom today, and I’m overjoyed! Please, everyone, stay safe and don’t mess this up again. Wear your damn mask, Karen! I’m at my breaking point and desperately need this break.

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I can already picture my mother making headlines as a “Karen” refusing to wear a mask in a store.

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A lady yelled at me for wearing a mask while shopping. Am I bothering you by keeping my distance and being cautious? No? Then shut up, Karen. I’d break social distance to confront someone like that.

When COVID hit, a new breed of Karens emerged—the anti-mask Karens. These individuals shout at those wearing masks and throw tantrums over mask mandates, only to find their antics going viral. Nobody cares if you don’t want to wear a mask while shopping, lady; you’re just embarrassing yourself.

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I dread spending time with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law! They’re the most self-absorbed people I know. My sister-in-law is a Karen on steroids, and I can’t even pretend to be nice anymore.

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I removed every Karen from my social media—it felt liberating. #nomoreKarens

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I recently realized one of my closest friends is a textbook Karen—rude to waitstaff, controlling, and hypercritical. How did I not notice it before? Now that I see it, I can’t stand her! Bye-bye, Karen!

It’s disheartening when we recognize that our friends have morphed into Karens. Were they always this way, or has age stripped away their joy, leaving behind a bitter soul? Sadly, when we spot a true Karen in our friend group, it might be time to cut ties.

I’ve come to understand that many of my childhood influences were “Karens.” Now that I recognize what a “Karen” is, I’m certain of it.

Growing up, my mother acted like a Karen, and I was embarrassed as a child. As an adult, I refuse to be seen with her.

Last week, my husband witnessed a Karen in action and was shocked. He thought all the viral videos were exaggerated because he didn’t believe women could act so foolishly. My mom is a Karen, and I suppose he thinks I’m nothing like her. Thank goodness!

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My mother truly embodies the Karen archetype. Seriously, lady, no one owes you anything, and not everyone is trying to deceive you.

Ultimately, it’s disheartening to realize we were raised by Karens. We had mothers, aunts, grandmothers, and teachers who fit the Karen mold, and now it’s up to us to reverse the damage and teach our children to be kind, helpful, and aware that the world doesn’t revolve around any one person.

The Karens aren’t going anywhere. There have always been self-centered individuals who feel entitled to more than others, but with the advent of social media, we can now expose their behavior when they mistreat baristas or call the police on innocent people.

While we may not be able to eliminate Karens, we’ll make sure they get the attention they deserve.

For more insights on family planning and home insemination, check out this post on our other blog. If you’re interested in options for artificial insemination, this site provides valuable resources.

Summary

The article discusses the phenomenon of “Karens”—overly entitled individuals who often display rude, ignorant, and sometimes racist behavior. It outlines various examples of Karen-like actions, emphasizing that anyone can embody this behavior, regardless of their name. The piece encourages readers to recognize and avoid these traits in themselves and others while fostering kindness and understanding in their communities.