When Our Adult Children Walk Away

It’s Not Just About the Past: Why Adult Kids Stop Talking to Dad


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Are you a dad of an estranged adult child wondering, "How did things get this far?"—you’re not alone. 

In this short but eye-opening episode, we unpack the real reasons many adult children choose to step away from their fathers. From unresolved childhood pain to emotional disconnect, this conversation sheds light on the deeper issues that often go unspoken.

We’ll also talk about how traditional views of fatherhood and masculinity can unintentionally block healing - and why some common fatherly reactions, like defensiveness or blame, often backfire.

Whether you’re trying to make sense of the silence or hoping to build a path toward reconnection, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and concrete steps forward.

Highlights:

  • The most common (and often hidden) reasons adult children cut ties with their fathers
  • Why saying “I did my best” may be heard as deflection, not care
  • What real accountability looks like—and how it can open the door to healing
  • How to respect your child’s boundaries while still showing up with hope and integrity

If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with another parent who might need it. And don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss future episodes on healing estrangement, rebuilding trust, and growing through the hard stuff.

#EstrangedDads #EstrangedParents #EmotionalIncest #EmotionalHealing #GriefSupport #MentalHealth

For more information, please go to https://www.WhenOurAdultChildrenWalkAway.com to find resources, strategies and tips to prepare to repair!

The continuum of estrangement discussed today can be found at https://www.togetherestranged.org/levels-of-estrangement.


The stories, examples, reflections, and perspectives shared in this podcast are based on my professional work as an estrangement coach and my personal estrangement journey. Any examples, characters, or stories referenced are either drawn from my own lived experience or represent a composite of multiple real-life situations shared with me over time. The intention of this podcast is not to accuse, label, or defame any individual but to provide insight, validation, and support for those navigating the complexities of family estrangement. All opinions expressed are my own and are shared with you, the listener, from a place of healing and learning.

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When Our Adult Children Walk AwayBy Dr. Janet Steinkamp, EdD

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