Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

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