Two parents faced the distressing situation of their grown son cutting off contact with them, attributing his intimacy issues to emotional abuse during his upbringing. This scenario is increasingly common and often follows a script involving allegations of abuse, the invocation of therapy’s authority, and the establishment of new boundaries. As a psychologist familiar with such cases, I guide parents through reflection on their past actions and an understanding of their child’s motivations. Modern definitions of harm and trauma have expanded, complicating parent-child dynamics, especially across generations. The process of reconciliation requires humility from both parties, with parents acknowledging their impact and children recognizing their parents’ limitations. While not all families successfully navigate these challenges, those who approach each other with compassion and a willingness to change can often mend fractured relationships.
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-parents-can-heal-rifts-with-their-adult-children
