I have 5 children and one has passed away. I always wanted to be a mom, it was my dream. I love my children, but we’re not all as close as some. My children are now in their late 30s, all adults, except one who passed away as an adult.
In my work, there are about 15 of us who work closely together, not all at the same time, but probably 7 or so at a time, flexible shifts. One of the coworkers has had numerous HR complaints about their behavior, including singling out males for special attention, unwanted touching/hugging, and a few other things. I do believe this person is on the spectrum and/or has other mental issues. I have nothing against anyone on the spectrum (and indeed, 3 of my children are high-functioning, but on the spectrum). Originally they used a nickname for me and I hate being called by nicknames. I told them that I didn’t want to be called by a nickname and they argued. After I pointed out that they get to pick their pronouns and I must honor it, they need to honor my choice of using my actual name, they eventually came around. However, the one thing they keep doing is calling me mom. I’m not their mother and I don’t want anyone to think I am or to think I’ve given them permission to do that. I talked to a co-worker who was around one day and she said it actually made her feel uncomfortable and was thinking of reporting both of us to HR, thinking I encouraged or allowed this. However, I know we’re very, very, exceedingly short-handed and this person has had enough complaints that one more might put them over the allowance and they might get fired.
I have kind of decided that if they call me mom one more time, I’ll remind them not to. After that, I will report them to HR. WIBTA if I did this?
NTA they shouldn’t call you mom, it’s really unprofessional. You should go to HR if they continue