The Bank of Mom and Dad -- When Helping Hurts

Are you helping your adult child… or accidentally holding them back?Many parents quietly support their adult children financially — paying rent, helping with debt, or covering emergencies. But when does helping become enabling?In this episode, Denise talks with financial psychologist Dr. Brad Klontz about the emotional and psychological forces behind the “Bank of Mom and Dad.”Dr. Brad tells it like it is and doesn't hold back.  He's says the right things - but sometimes they are hard to hear.  You decide. Together they explore why financial dependence happens, how parents unintentionally reinforce it, and what it takes to change the pattern.This is a tough conversation — but an important one for any parent wondering if their financial support is truly helping their child thrive.In this episode we discuss:What a financial psychologist actually doesWhy money is the #1 stressor for most AmericansThe emotional drivers behind parents financially supporting adult childrenThe difference between helping and enablingThe psychology of financial dependenceWhy adult children sometimes resent the parents supporting themHow guilt, divorce, and childhood experiences shape financial decisionsWhat parents can do when an adult child refuses to become independentThe psychological concept of an “extinction burst”How to create boundaries around financial helpWhat to do when grandchildren complicate the situationWhether helping with a house down payment is a good ideaHow money can impact sibling relationships and inheritanceIf you have something to add or if you have a question you'd like us to answer:📞 Call the Bite Your Tongue listener line: 719-347-1106You can also email us at [email protected] are on SUBSTACK now too - with "Behind the Mic."  We talk about how the episode resonated with us and share some inside scoop that you won't want to miss.  Please follow us on social media now.  It helps us so much. Facebook  InstagramHuge thanks to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.  Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.