In recent years, more young adults have been struggling to transition into the traditional markers of adulthood—steady employment, financial independence, and self-sufficiency. This trend, often labeled as a “failure to launch,” has raised concerns among parents, educators, and mental health professionals about the best ways to support young adults in this critical stage of life without enabling counterproductive behaviors.
Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children through this challenging period. However, finding the balance between support and enabling is a delicate task. The key is to foster a supportive environment that encourages independence while providing a safety net for inevitable mistakes.
Parents need to encourage open communication
Young adults must feel that their concerns and fears are heard and understood. Parents should aim to be empathetic listeners, offering guidance and advice when appropriate, but more importantly, providing a space where their children can express themselves without judgment. This open line of communication can help identify the specific challenges the young adult faces, whether they are emotional, financial, or career-related.
The key is to foster a supportive environment that encourages independence while providing a safety net for inevitable mistakes.
Set realistic and gradual expectations
Parents should encourage their children to set achievable goals and celebrate small victories. This approach helps to build confidence and a sense of accomplishment. For instance, instead of focusing on the end goal of a full-time job, parents can encourage their children to take on internships, part-time work, or volunteer opportunities to build skills and experience.
Teach financial responsibility
Instead of providing unrestricted financial support, parents can help their young adults learn budgeting, saving, and the value of money. This might involve setting up a gradual plan where financial support is slowly decreased as the young adult takes on more responsibility for their expenses.
Encourage independence in daily life skills
Young adults should be motivated to take on cooking, cleaning, and managing their schedules. These skills are critical for their overall development and independence.
Young adults may sometimes require professional support, such as counseling or career guidance. Parents should be open to seeking these resources and encouraging their children to take advantage of them. Mental health issues, for example, are a significant barrier to independence and should be addressed with the help of professionals.
Learn more about supporting your child’s transition to independence. Check out our article for tips on helping your young adult develop autonomy and perserverance.
Practice self-care and set boundaries
Parents need to recognize their own needs and limitations. Over-involvement can lead to burnout and resentment, and it’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance in the parent-child relationship. Setting clear boundaries helps young adults understand the limits of parental support and encourages them to take more responsibility for their lives.
Excerpted from “Supporting Young Adults in Their Transition to Independence” in Psychology Today. Read the full article online.
Source: Psychology Today | Supporting Young Adults in Their Transition to Independence, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/promoting-empathy-with-your-teen/202401/supporting-young-adults-in-their-transition-to | © 2025 Sussex Publishers, LLC
