A good article appeared recently discussing the heartbreak of parent-child estrangement. The bottom line is that this is a very difficult problem. However, a number of positive strategies are available to try to change the situation. Here’s an excerpt from this recent article ….

“While sometimes parents initiate estrangements, studies show that it’s more often their offspring who terminate the relationship. For the parent, there is no upside to an estrangement: It’s all shame, loss, regret and fear. However, estrangement from the adult child’s perspective offers an opportunity to demonstrate greater authority and autonomy in the relationship with the parent, set limits on hurtful behavior, express aspects of their individuality such as gender identity or sexuality, or enforce stronger boundaries …. Children can change dramatically over the course of their lives, but so can a parent. There will inevitably be aspects that the other finds challenging or difficult. In family, our task is to ensure that love and support remain the guiding principles; to find ways to communicate that foster closeness and reduce hurt; and to hope for patience — theirs and ours —­ as we navigate these new and uncharted territories of parent-adult child relationships.” “Parent-Child Estrangement.” Washington Post (August 20, 2024).