How to Deal With Unemployed Adult Children Back in the Home

Families can grow closer when adult children move back with their parents.

Because of the poor economy, high unemployment rates and rising divorce rates adults are moving back in with their parents in record numbers. According to the Pew Research Center, "As of 2008, a record 49 million Americans, or 16.1 percent of the total U.S. population, lived in a family household that contained at least two adult generations or a grandparent and at least one other generation." As parents open their homes to their adult children, they face many complications that can wreak havoc with family harmony. Instead of bickering with your children, make plans to have a smooth transition into becoming a multi-generational home.

Instructions

1. Tell your children what your house guidelines will be. All parties should be aware of the rules on rent, household chores, overnight guests and meal preparations. Discussing these expectations will prevent misunderstandings that can cause contention in your home.

2. Determine how much money you can contribute to helping your adult children. Do not let their difficulties put your retirement funds at risk. Be honest with your children about how much you can help them.

3. Communicate with your children and allow them to talk openly with you. Let your children know any expectations or concerns you have. Listen to your children's concerns.

4. Remember the positive aspects of your adult children living with you. You and your children can offer each other emotional and financial support. Grandchildren benefit from close relationships with grandparents.

5. Offer a time limit for your adult children to live with you. After the time has ended, reevaluate the living arrangements and decide together with your children if the current arrangements are working.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that even though your boarders are your children, they are adults and should be given the chance to make their own decisions and mistakes.

References

• Arizona State University: Parents and Extended Family Relationships
• AARP; Dealing with Boomerang Kids; Holly Robinson; 2010
• University of Florida: Coping with a Money Crunch: What to Expect when Adult Children Move Back Home
• Pew Research Center: The Return of the Multi-Generational Family Household