Failure to Launch

What is it?

“Failure to Launch” describes the issue of young adults, who are in their late teens or early 20s, being unable to make a plan and move forward in their education or career. As a result, they continue to live at home with their parents, long after it is appropriate to do so.

3 Reasons Why it Matters

1. Failure to Launch delays the essential transition to adulthood, leading to financial dependence, a lack of motivation for independence, isolation, and difficulty with adult responsibilities.
2. This can be incredibly confusing and unsettling to parents and cause friction between parents and child.
3. Counseling can address and help identify what is holding the young adult back. A counselor can also provide support for parents and education on how best to navigate living with their “young adult roommate.”