AITA for asking my girlfriend to leave the house for 6-7 hours a day?

In a recent online debate, a situation has emerged involving a young couple living together in a one-bedroom apartment. The male partner, who is juggling multiple side jobs to support his family and his girlfriend, has requested that his girlfriend leave the apartment for several hours each day to allow him to work without distraction. This arrangement has led to significant tension between the two.

The girlfriend, who recently lost her job and is spending more time at home, has been unhappy with the request to vacate the shared living space. She feels that since she contributes equally to the rent, she should have the right to be present in any part of the apartment at any time. The situation worsened when the male partner asked her to eat lunch in a different area of the apartment to accommodate a visiting friend, further fueling her frustration.

Opinions on this matter have been polarized. Some argue that the male partner’s demands are unreasonable given that the girlfriend pays half of the rent and should not be forced to leave the apartment. They suggest that if a distraction-free environment is essential for work, he should seek an alternative workspace, such as a library or a co-working space. Others express concern that the male partner’s expectations might be too high and could strain the relationship, possibly leading to its end if not addressed properly.

This case highlights a broader issue in shared living arrangements where balancing personal space with relationship dynamics becomes a challenge. Finding a solution that respects both parties’ needs and contributions is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship while managing work and living conditions.