As a therapist, I've had the privilege of working with families facing a wide array of challenges and transitions. One area that often surfaces in my sessions is the delicate balance between fostering independence and safeguarding the mental well-being of young adults as they approach and pass the age of 18. In many cultures, the expectation is that children leave the family home once they come of age, but this can have unintended consequences, especially when it's done without adequately equipping them for the real world. Let's delve into why pushing your child out the door at 18 can be detrimental to their mental health.
The Importance of Teaching Life Skills:
One of the fundamental aspects of preparing your child for independence is equipping them with essential life skills. This includes teaching them financial literacy, proper hygiene, home training, social skills, and practical knowledge, like car maintenance. Neglecting these skills can set the stage for difficulties in adulthood, as young adults may find themselves ill-equipped to manage the complexities of life.
The Financial Literacy Gap:
Financial literacy is a critical skill, but it is often overlooked in traditional education. Many 18-year-olds lack an understanding of budgeting, savings, investing, and debt management. When they are thrust into the world without this knowledge, they may quickly find themselves drowning in financial stress and debt, which can lead to anxiety and depression.
Hygiene and Home Training:
Basic life skills such as personal hygiene and maintaining a clean living space are often assumed, but not everyone has been adequately taught these skills. Young adults who struggle with these basics may face feelings of embarrassment, self-neglect, and isolation, all of which can significantly impact their mental health.
Social Skills:
Effective communication, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills are vital for building successful relationships. Young adults who haven't been guided in developing these skills may find it challenging to navigate the complexities of adulthood, leading to feelings of loneliness and social anxiety.
Car Maintenance and Practical Knowledge:
Not knowing how to maintain a car or manage public transportation can pose significant challenges. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, frustration, and even isolation when young adults cannot participate in daily activities, such as going to work or managing their daily tasks.
Employment and Experience:
The job market often requires prior work experience, which can be a significant obstacle for young adults. The constant cycle of job rejections due to a lack of experience can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dependency.
Housing Costs:
In some areas, the cost of housing, like in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, can be overwhelming. Forcing young adults to navigate this financial burden on their own can lead to feelings of failure, inadequacy, and even depression and anxiety.
Cultural Differences:
It's crucial to acknowledge that cultural differences play a significant role in this debate. In Western cultures, there is often a push for young adults to leave home early and embrace independence. In contrast, many other cultures encourage young adults to stay at home until they are financially stable, reflecting different approaches to the transition to adulthood.
Brain Development:
The human brain, especially the prefrontal cortex responsible for decision-making and impulse control, continues to develop until around the age of 25. Pushing young adults out of the nest before they are mentally and emotionally ready can be detrimental to their ability to make informed and responsible decisions. They might struggle with impulsive actions and have difficulty managing the stresses of adult life.
Preparing, Not Pushing:
As a therapist, I advocate for preparation rather than pushing. It's crucial to provide your child with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to thrive in the real world. The transition to independence should be a gradual process, with parents offering guidance and support as their children develop independence.
In conclusion, the decision to push your child out of the home at 18 should be made with careful consideration. The transition to independence is a pivotal phase in a young adult's life, and rushing it can have lasting effects on their mental health. Instead, prioritize their preparation and education. This approach will help your child build the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive in the real world and protect their mental health. Your role as a parent extends beyond providing shelter; it includes giving them a strong foundation for a successful, fulfilling life.
Samantha Allison- Evans, MA., LPC