Reconciling With an Estranged Child: Listening Matters Most
Psychology Today | 13.11.2026 02:22
From my work with parents who have been estranged by their adult children, I’ve learned that few experiences match the pain that is felt when you’ve been cut off by someone you love. It may be difficult to believe, but parents are often taken by complete surprise when an adult child steps out of their life. Some children announce their intentions directly to their parents, but others are more subtle, and just stop responding to calls, texts, or emails. When the relationship breakdown resembles being “ghosted” by a child, parents tend to replay their most recent interactions repeatedly, trying to find a reason for the break.
