Raising children is no easy feat—and just because they reach adulthood doesn’t mean the challenges magically disappear. In fact, sometimes the struggles only deepen.
Take the story of a single mother whose 21-year-old son suddenly threatened to move out—and live with his father—unless she bought him a new car.
This demand wasn’t just a tough ultimatum; it was a clear sign that their relationship was strained and unhealthy.
So what can a parent do when faced with such a difficult situation? How can they navigate these emotional landmines and create a smoother path forward?
More importantly, what strategies can any parent use to regain balance and reduce the tension when adult children begin to use them as pawns in their own battles?