Finding Your Way as a Young Adult with a High-Conflict Parent
In this week's episode, Bill and Megan discuss the challenges many young adults face when launching into independent adulthood after growing up with a high-conflict parent.
Bill and Megan have noticed an uptick in parents saying their young adult children are floundering after high school. While there are many contributing factors, a common thread seems to be having a parent with a high-conflict personality. This can significantly impact a young person's ability to find direction and become fully independent.
Bill and Megan explore the cultural and social factors that make this transitional time particularly difficult for young people today. They discuss how our interconnected online world, while having many benefits, can also lead to comparison, depression and a feeling of not belonging. Bullying and toxic relationships enabled by social media exacerbate these issues.
In addition, they examine the direct impact of growing up with a self-focused, high-conflict parent. This can leave young people feeling responsible for the parent and unable to focus on their own wants and needs. Bill and Megan provide perspective on how to overcome these challenges, emphasizing the importance of finding mentors, engaging in healthy social connections and seeking professional support if needed.
Questions we answer in this episode:
- How can today's media culture negatively impact young people?
- What are some strategies for young people struggling with a high-conflict parent?
- Where can young adults find support and a sense of belonging?
Key Takeaways:
- Comparison on social media can lead to loneliness and depression
- Bullying has more power and reach than ever before
- Mentors and jobs can provide direction and purpose
- Group therapy and school counseling are helpful resources
- Focus on developing your own identity and passions
This uplifting episode provides hope and helpful advice for young people navigating adulthood in today's complex world. Bill and Megan offer perspective and guidance for anyone supporting a young person struggling to spread their wings.
Links & Other Notes
Note: We are not diagnosing anyone in our discussions, merely discussing patterns of behavior.
- (00:00) - Welcome to It's All Your Fault
- (01:35) - State of Floundering Young People
- (02:37) - Why So Much Floundering?
- (09:49) - Bullying and Stimulation
- (13:24) - Parenting
- (18:29) - When Truly Floundering
- (20:20) - How Many?
- (22:44) - Wrap Up
- (23:02) - Reminders & Coming Next Week: Are EAR Statements for All High Conflict Types?
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