Failure To Launch Syndrome Explained

By Cynthia Patterson


It is very frustrating and also heart-breaking for a parent when they have a child struggling to leave home and start living independently. This is a situation that could make a parent to wonder whether they made some mistake that is inhibiting growth of the child or if that child is just being lazy. Whereas both of those scenarios are possible, there are a number of factors that lead to failure to launch syndrome. The factor that leads to it determines the treatment mode.

Failure to launch is a term that is used in reference to people that are struggling with transition to adulthood. It is usually defined as the inability of that person to leave home and stop relying on parents or relatives, notwithstanding underlying issues. It usually affects young adults who will appear like they are stuck or they are not maturing as expected. It is common to find most young people finding rites of passage interesting and encouraging. This is not the case for all of them as it causes regressive behavior in them.

Most young adults are in need of extra support during the transition into adulthood. This could include some stint with parents at home. It does not however imply that all such individuals who live with their parents will fail to launch. It is something that is considered after long periods of dependency from the person without motivation to progress. Examples of symptoms of failure to launch syndrome are failure to take responsibility, low level of persistence and low tolerance for distress.

There are different causes of this syndrome. At the same time, there are influencing factors. Parenting style, family experience and how parents relate with their children are critical factors. Overprotective parents raise kids that could lack autonomy. When a child is not faced with challenges appropriate with their age at different growth stages, they get to miss out on the chance to develop confidence.

Substance abuse is another possible cause. Isolation, entitlement and unhealthy family systems are possible factors that lead to it. When addiction is present, it is possible that failure to launch might not be noticed. Young adults that suffer from chemical addiction are more likely to experience diminished cognitive, emotional and financial stability. Regardless of the type of addiction, everyone that suffers from an addiction lives a life that is unmanageable.

Given the various factors interfering with successful launch, the types of treatment will also vary. It helps a great deal to engage the family when it comes to setting expectations and short-term goals for those affected. These will help in bringing those affected back on track. In many cases, it would be best to have the affected live with other young adults.

The people that are suffering from the syndrome should be given clear responsibilities and need to face natural consequences if they are not able to live up to the responsibilities. It also helps to use organizational coaches to help those affected establish plans which are able to help them accomplish goals.

Individual therapy also comes very much in handy. It will help in addressing doubts about sense of effectiveness of the person. The therapy increases awareness of emotions as well as ability to effectively communicate emotions.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment