to be yourself lately, and I’m worried about you.’” Encourage them to seek help if needed, whether it’s through therapy, career counseling, or other resources. And remember, says McConville, “There’s nothing wrong with saying, ‘We had a deal. And you’re not doing what we agreed to do.’ And if they’re not motivated to make a change, then that has to be the next conversation.” Ultimately, the key is to find a balance between supporting your adult child and encouraging their independence. As Steinberg puts it, “You want to be able to support your child but not enable them. You want to be able to provide a safety net but not a hammock.” And while it may be a challenging adjustment, with open communication and clear boundaries, navigating this new phase of your relationship with your grown child can lead to a positive and fulfilling outcome for both parties.
