In this episode of the Happy Families Podcast, Justin and Kylie tackle a tricky parenting dilemma: how to support your adult child without damaging the relationship. Responding to a listener's concern about her 20-year-old daughter's social media presence, they explore the importance of autonomy, the dangers of forceful guidance, and how parents can remain a supportive influence while respecting boundaries.

KEY POINTS:

• Adult children crave autonomy; unsolicited advice often creates resistance.

• Connection, not correction, is the key to long-term influence.

• Dropping the parental agenda fosters openness and trust.

• Seek consent before offering advice to show respect and preserve the relationship.

• Employers do check social media – nearly 70% of them, according to the Harvard Business Review.

• When you share concerns respectfully, you plant seeds that may grow later.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“Our kids, especially our young adults, want autonomy more than anything – it’s like oxygen to them.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Harvard Business Review statistic: ~70% of employers check candidates’ social media.

• Happy Families Podcast – Submit tricky questions via happyfamilies.com.au/podcast

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Let go of the agenda – Accept that your adult child will make their own choices.

2. Prioritise connection – Build trust through presence, interest, and nonjudgmental conversation.

3. Ask for permission – Before giving advice, say: “Would you be open to hearing a thought I have?”

4. Share perspective, not prescriptions – Offer insights gently and leave space for reflection.

5. Respect autonomy – Even when it’s hard, show you trust their ability to learn from experience.