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Episode 169: Navigating Estrangement: How to Reconnect with Your Adult Child

In this Ask Me Anything episode, Tina Gosney, The Family Conflict Coach, answers two heartfelt questions from parents struggling with estrangement from their adult children. These relationships are complex, emotional, and often deeply rooted in family patterns that span generations. Tina shares insights from Bowen Family Systems Theory and differentiation of self to help parents navigate these challenging dynamics.

If you're dealing with a strained relationship with your adult child, feeling confused, hurt, or even resentful, this episode is for you. Learn practical strategies for managing your emotions, breaking old family patterns, and fostering connection without pressure or urgency.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why adult children distance themselves from parents and how unresolved emotional tension plays a role.
• The impact of generational family patterns on relationships.
• How to stay emotionally grounded and avoid reactive patterns.
• The difference between enmeshment, emotional cutoff, and healthy differentiation.
• Why healing happens on your child’s timeline, not yours.
• Practical steps to rebuild trust and create a safe space for reconnection.

Timestamps:
00:05 - Welcome to Coaching Your Family Relationships podcast
00:17 - Why estrangement between parents and adult children is becoming more common
02:34 - Free guide: 5 Steps to Reconnect with Your Adult Child (Get it in the show notes!)
03:53 - Question #1: Our daughter has set strong boundaries—how do we reconnect?
06:55 - Understanding emotional cutoff and generational family patterns
07:22 - Key questions to ask yourself before reaching out
10:46 - Question #2: My son’s girlfriend “stole” him from our family—how do I handle this?
12:15 - The role of differentiation in family relationships
15:33 - The power of small, pressure-free interactions in rebuilding trust

Download the Free Guide:
 “The 3-Step Solution to Keeping Your Cool Around Family Holiday Drama”
 Holidays can stir up old patterns and emotions—this guide will help you stay grounded and respond with grace.

Grab your copy here: DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE

Ready to learn how to manage your emotional reactions? Calm Core is your guide:

Being able to manage your emotional reactions to others is a vital step in repairing family relationships

CLICK HERE TO SEE CALM CORE

Tina Gosney is the Family Conflict Coach. She works with parents who have families in conflict to help them become the grounded, confident leaders their family needs.
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Connect with us:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tinagosneycoaching/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinagosneycoaching

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Tina is certified in family relationships and a trauma informed coach.
Visit tinagosney.com for more information on coaching services.