The housing crisis continues to force many adults to live at home well into their 30s
Psychologist, Dr. Lalitaa from AltIndex, spoke to Her.ie to shed some light on the psychological repercussions of having to stay at home for longer.
Dr. Lalitaa went into detail about the effects on independence, self-esteem, familial relationships, social development, and offered strategies to help maintain autonomy and personal growth for those who are currently in this situation.
Independence and Self-Esteem
Living at home into your 30s can significantly impact your sense of independence and self-esteem.
Dr. Lalitaa explains: “Prolonged cohabitation with parents may create a dependency that hinders the development of essential life skills, such as financial management, decision-making, and self-reliance.”
“This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and diminished self-worth, as we often see online the link between adult success and independent living.”
As a result, lots of people admit to feeling a sense shame or embarrassment, and even sometimes avoid social gatherings and romantic relationships – which only further affects emotional well-being.
Strain on Relationships
The housing crisis means for many people, there is no other choice but to live at home with parents, which can often strain relationships within the family.
While shared living can provide emotional and financial support, it can also lead to conflicts over space, privacy, and household responsibilities.
Dr. Lalitaa says: “The dynamic often shifts, with adult children and parents renegotiating roles and boundaries.
“This can create tension, as parents may have difficulty adjusting to their children’s autonomy, and adult children may feel infantilised.”
Clear communication and mutual respect are so important to maintaining healthy relationships under these circumstances.
Intimate Relationships
Living with your parents during adult life can also hinder your social development and ability to form intimate relationships.
It’s a knock-on effect of having a lack of privacy and independence, which can make pursuing romantic relationships and building a social life challenging.
Dr. Lalitaa says: “People may feel embarrassed or constrained by their living situation, leading to social withdrawal or difficulty in establishing new connections.”
This extended time at home can delay important social milestones, such as living with a partner or developing a distinct social identity, separate from the family unit.
Parental Support
Parents play a crucial role in supporting their adult children’s psychological well-being while they continue to live at home.
Dr. Lalitaa says: “Creating an environment of mutual respect and understanding is key.
“Encouraging open communication about needs and expectations can help mitigate conflicts.”
Providing emotional support without overstepping boundaries allows adult children to feel valued and understood.
Stratgies to Navigate This Time
While living at home into your 30s due to the housing crisis presents significant challenges, both adult children and parents can adopt strategies to navigate this period effectively.
Despite the challenges, there are strategies adults can use to maintain a sense of autonomy and personal growth while living with their parents.
Dr. Lalitaa suggests:
- Establishing clear boundaries: Open communication about expectations and responsibilities is essential.
- Pursuing personal interests: Engaging in hobbies and social activities outside the home fosters independence and self-fulfillment.
- Setting financial goals: Saving for future housing can provide a sense of purpose and progress.
- Professional development: Seeking opportunities for career advancement and continuing education can enhance self-esteem and personal growth.
