Difficult - Mothering Challenging Adult Children Through Conflict and Change

A much-needed perspective on how to mother difficult adult children while balancing one's own needs.

Difficult brings to life the conflicts that arise for mothers who are confronted with the unexpected, burdensome, and even catastrophic dependencies of their adult children associated with mental illness, substance use, or chronic unemployment. Through real stories of mothers and their challenging adult children, this book offers relatable, provocative, and, at times, shocking illustrations of the excruciating maternal dilemma: Which takes precedence-the needs of the mother or of the distressed adult child?

With guidance for finding social support, staying safe, engaging in self-care, and helping the adult child, Difficult is a compassionate resource for those living in a family situation which too many keep secret and allows readers to see that they are not alone.

About the author

Judith R. Smith, PhD, LCSW, is a leader in gerontological research focusing on women's experiences as they age. She is a senior clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and professor of social work at Fordham University. She lives in New York City with her husband.

Product details

• Authors: Judith R Smith, Judith R. Smith, Smith Judith R.
• Publisher: Rowman and Littlefield
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 01.04.2024
• EAN: 9781538192733
• ISBN: 978-1-5381-9273-3
• No. of pages: 282
• Subjects: Guides > Self-help, everyday life > Lifestyle, personal development; SOCIAL SCIENCE / Gerontology, SELF-HELP / Aging, FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS / Parenting / General, SELF-HELP / Abuse, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Violence in Society, Family & relationships, Coping with personal problems, Advice on parenting, Age groups: the elderly, Violence in society, Parenting: advice and issues, Relationships and families: advice and issues, Violence and abuse in society, Coping with old age, Coping with / advice about ageing, Coping with / advice about abuse