We all know a “Karen.” They’re often loud, believe their opinions trump everyone else’s, embarrass their children, and frequently display ignorance and prejudice. If your name happens to be Karen (trust me, I understand—mine is too), don’t worry; we’re not referring to you unless you’re acting like a spoiled, adult version of Regina George.
However, being a “Karen” isn’t limited to just those named Karen. You can embody this behavior no matter your name. Here’s how to tell: If you call the police on children running a lemonade stand because an eight-year-old lacks a “permit,” you’re a Karen. If you report your exhausted neighbor recovering from COVID-19 to the HOA board because their lawn is unkempt, you’re a Karen. If you lie to help your child secure a spot on the cheerleading squad ahead of others following the rules, you’re definitely a Karen.
And if you call the police on a Black person simply for existing in the same vicinity as you (whether they’re at the park, walking to their car, or just standing on the sidewalk), then you’re the absolute worst—you’ve crossed the line into racist Karen territory.
Chances are, you have a Karen in your life—be it a distant relative you only see at family gatherings or a neighbor who complains about your kids playing outside. We all have to navigate their presence, but let’s ensure we never become like them.
Confessions of Frustration
“I stopped talking to you because you’re an idiot. An entitled, ignorant, racist Karen, who thinks following trends signifies intelligence and superiority. Happy now?”
Confessional #25825634
Every time I hear someone say younger generations are entitled, it makes me laugh. In my customer service job, 90% of the rudest and most aggressive customers are aged 55 and older. Seriously, Carol/Karen/Barbara, enough is enough!
Confessional #19888450
I moved to the countryside to escape rude neighbors, only to find a city dweller next door who constantly complains about the surrounding farms having gasp ANIMALS! Go back to the city, Karen; you’re not in charge of the HOA in your new environment.
Confessional #25788115
Karens often display ignorance, rudeness, and a troubling sense of entitlement. They disrespect service workers and complain the moment things don’t meet their specific preferences. When I share that we’re adopting, the response is often, “Why didn’t you just try it the traditional way?” Well, Karen, because the old-fashioned way didn’t work out for us—let’s just celebrate the news instead.
Confessional #25825430
Karens also intrude where they don’t belong, turning matters that have nothing to do with them into their business, creating unnecessary drama. They were never taught to “say something nice or say nothing at all,” and it shows.
After months of virtual learning, my kids are finally back in school today, and I’m so relieved I cried! Please, everyone, stay safe and don’t ruin this again! Mask up, Karen! I’m at my breaking point and genuinely need this break.
Confessional #25813388
Sadly, we often discover that our in-laws can be the most Karen-like. Family gatherings become a source of dread because our “Karen” relatives seem to suck the joy out of everything.
Confessional #25806950
And when we realize our friends have turned into Karens, it’s disheartening. Were they always this way, or has aging drained their happiness? It’s a signal to distance ourselves from their negativity.
Confessional #25760983
Ultimately, the Karens of the world aren’t going anywhere. There have always been self-centered individuals who feel entitled to more than everyone else. However, with social media, we can now expose their antics when they insult baristas or call the cops on people they deem undesirable.
We may not be able to eliminate Karens, but we can certainly make them famous.
For more insights, check out this post that delves deeper into related topics. If you’re interested in home insemination, Make a Mom provides excellent resources on the subject. Additionally, for anyone considering IVF, UCSF’s fertility treatment page is a fantastic resource.