Psychology Researcher Sets 5 Steps to Reconcile Estranged Adult Children as 38% Report Family Rifts
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Aug 11
Psychology Researcher Sets 5 Steps to Reconcile Estranged Adult Children as 38% Report Family Rifts
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 11
Summary
Dr. Richard Blake said parents trying to reconnect with estranged adult children should first stabilize their own mental health, then approach contact with listening, validation and a willingness to change.
Five steps he outlined center on de-escalation: pause before reacting to accusations, ask for specific behaviors instead of debating labels like “toxic,” and use “I” statements while avoiding absolutes such as “always” and “never.”
Blake said many estrangements are cyclical, with adult children sometimes re-engaging and then cutting contact again if they see no meaningful change from parents.
A 2025 YouGov poll found 38% of U.S. adults were estranged from at least one close family member; among estranged parents, 70% said they would consider reconciling.
Research suggests reconciliation is common but not guaranteed: 81% of adult children estranged from mothers and 69% estranged from fathers later resumed contact, though Blake said abuse or safety risks can make reunion inappropriate.