Ask Kari: My Son is Throwing Away His Life!
Dear Kari,
My son decided that college is not for him and he wants to drop out. He told me that he plans to move to Los Angeles to become an actor/musician. I am having a hard time with this, since he has never acted in a play in his life, nor does he sing or play an instrument very well. What can I do so that he does not throw away his life?--Scared Parent
Dear Scared Parent,
You are in a very tough situation. Your son is an adult who can make his own decisions, even if you feel that they are bad ones. I recommend that you continue to listen and wait to see if he actually puts together a plan to drop out of college and move to California. You do have a right to ask questions about his plans based on your love and concern for him. You also have the right to not financially support your son in this move if you choose not to. If he takes action and moves to launch an entertainment career, wish him luck and wait to see what happens. I know that is very hard to do, but I do not want you both to lose your relationship with each other over a disagreement based on the growing pains of your son becoming an adult. Good luck and hold tight for the ending of this storyline.
–Kari
About Kari:
Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW, is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and the owner and Clinical Director of Issaquah Highlands Counseling Group (IHCG), which is now Kari O’Neill Counseling.
This column is for entertainment purposes only. If you are in crisis and in need of support please contact the Crisis Clinic at 866-427-4747.