Does it feel like more adult children are living with their parents nowadays? Or maybe you haven’t noticed this trend generally, but you’re experiencing it personally. For what it’s worth, a Thrivent survey published in April 2025 found that almost half of parents reported children aged 18 to 35 moved back home. That’s a pretty significant number.Parents may love having their child back at home. They may feel eager for quality time or help with housing costs, for example. But parents may feel the challenges of living with an adult child too. Navigating a relationship with an adult child can be different and tricky enough, let alone when you’re with them all day and maybe—as a result—get annoyed with each other more easily. Some parents may also worry about their adult children, wanting to ensure they live well-adjusted, independent lives and move out eventually. In short, living with your son or daughter when they're older can bring many emotions home.How can parents handle this situation in a way that’s best for them and the adult kid? What do experts recommend they do? Read on for psychologists’ tips on the nine things to do (and not do) if your adult child lives at home. Plus, their insight into why grown kids are moving back in with their parents, along with the pros and cons of this scenario.Related: 9 Things Adult Children Need From Their Parents and Grandparents—but Won’t Ask For, Psychologists Share
Why Are Adult Kids Moving Back in With Their Parents?
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While it may feel weird at first, there are many pros to enjoy. For parents, Dr. Hoffman lists extra time together, potential financial contributions and help around the house as some positives. For adult children, she mentions financial and emotional support, time and space to save money and figure things out, help with daily tasks and company. The biggest pro, according to Dr. Chaudhery-Malgeri, is proximity. While many parents have to wait for a holiday to see their children, these parents don’t. They can build a connection every day (or more often than just special occasions, at least). “Done well, it can become a season of mutual support: shared meals, shared responsibilities, shared laughter and real-time witnessing of each other’s growth,” she shares. “It can also provide stability that helps an adult child regain footing—financially, emotionally and practically.”
The cons of an adult child living at their parents’ house
9 Things To Do if Your Adult Child Lives at Home, According to Psychologists
Dr. Chaudhery-Malgeri recommends having a calm conversation and seeing the situation as a “season with a plan” rather than a shameful secret or indefinite limbo. “When you name the season, you reduce the pressure and the household stops living in uncertainty,” she explains.You two might want to name the adult child’s goals and the needed steps. For example, they might want to apply for a certain number of jobs each week or have a certain amount of money saved within the next six months. “Revisit monthly, not as surveillance, but as supportive accountability,” Dr. Chaudhery-Malgeri suggests.
2. Check your judgment about the situation
Space is important not only in a physical and logistical sense, but in an emotional sense. “Let them know you are available if they want to talk, but pressuring them constantly will likely push them away,” Dr. Hoffman says.
4. Give them space
One way you can show support and love is by sharing or learning about their interests.“Watch a movie they want to watch, listen to their music, etc.,” Dr. Hoffman shares. “Ask them questions about their interests. Remember the things they said and follow up with them.” For example, maybe they just tried a new group fitness class, so you ask them how it went. Or if they're a Swiftie, talk about the latest Taylor Swift news.
6. Do your own thing
Given that the adult child is at a different stage, the norms need to reflect that. “Your job is not to parent a 10 p.m. curfew into a 28-year-old,” Dr. Chaudhery-Malgeri says. “Your job is to create agreements that protect the household: noise, guests, shared spaces, substance use and safety expectations. Keep it respectful, concrete and mutual.”
8. Put money on paper (before resentment writes its own story)
9. Create a contribution rhythm, not a 'help when asked' model
Money isn’t the only factor to consider—chores are too. By creating a set schedule, you can avoid resentment and misunderstandings.“Adults living at home should contribute like adults,” Dr. Chaudhery-Malgeri says. “Decide recurring responsibilities: dishes, laundry schedule, trash, errands, cooking nights, childcare help, yard work. Make it predictable.”Related: People Who Felt Constantly Criticized as Children Usually Develop These 13 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say
Related: 9 Things Boomers Do That Drive Their Adult Children Away, Psychologists Reveal
Sources:
Dr. Malasri Chaudhery-Malgeri, PhD, is the chief clinical officer at Recovery.com.Dr. Elana Hoffman, PhD, is a clinical psychologist.Parents' Retirement Threatened as High Costs Drive Adult Children Home, Thrivent’s Annual Boomerang Kids Survey Shows, ThriventHence then, the article about 9 things to do if your adult child lives at home according to psychologists was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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