"If you kick me out, I will never speak to you again." This was the response of a 29-year-old at home in a contentious relationship with his
Parental Backbone: Saying “No” in Love?
The fifth practice that parents of young adults need to master is the most difficult. This practice is the ability to demonstrate unconditional love
Never Kick Your Young Adult Out of the House
For young adults in our society, leaving home is a normal rite of passage. The decision to go and the timing, however, can be challenging. Some
Are You Helicopter Parenting Your Young Adult?
When my daughter was starting college, we discussed the problem of helicopter parents with the college dean. He said one mother came in daily to clean
My Young Adult has Anxiety or Depression & I’m Afraid to Show Backbone
When challenged to show backbone with a young adult who is anxious or depressed, one of the common parental assumptions is that this could make things
House Rules: Love and Backbone
"How do I know I am making the right decision regarding my young adult," a mother asked. She was about to give her son, a 26-year-old, an ultimatum.
There are No Easy Answers for Parents Trying to Help a Troubled Young Adult
“My young adult son has serious mental health problem, is living outside the home, using illicit drugs, out of work, and refuses to get help. What can
Do’s, Don’ts & Expectations in Parenting Young Adults
Note: this article was originally published on April 21, 2021 and revised on October 16. One request I make of parents of young adults who come to
What to do When Your Young Adult is Lying
The day before my oldest daughter got married, she asked me, "what is the most important quality to a successful marriage?" I didn't say "love." I