Do Grown Up Children Need Parental Support?

Kids

oi-Staff

By Staff

Thursday, December 17, 2009, 16:20

Middle aged parents feel happier to help their children who are successful and settled in life. Parents helping out their grown up children have revealed that even at the later stage of life, they are their kids' favorites.

However, not all grown up children get the same support says Karen Fingerman, Professor in Gerontology.

Most people expect parents to help their youngest child or one who is struggling, but experts of family studies say that parents are more eager to help those children who are more successful. Parents are motivated to help their successful young adult as their achievements are a reflection on the parents.
When the child is successful, parents feel successful too.

Another possibility of such a behavioral pattern is that the parents may feel secure with their children who are successful in life. They think that in their old age, children who are successful would be their support.

While parents may want to spend more time with the children who are well settled, they may be more likely to give financial assistance and practical support to those who are struggling.

The forms of parental support given to their grown up children include financial support, helping with the daily household chores, giving advice, emotional support, listening and participating in social activities.