Is it hard to parent today?

My 21-year-old stepdaughter has taken the scenic route to independence. She's mastered the art of relying on me for rides because she's "too afraid to drive."

I've had to draw the line, encouraging her to spread her wings and conquer her fears. It's not always easy, but I believe in her ability to grow.

Have you faced a similar situation with your young adult child resisting the road to adulthood?

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rfatoday · 61-69, M

I have not been in your shoes specifically, but I have dealt with being hindered by fear in my young adult days. As far as driving is concerned, perhaps she can take small steps to build her confidence. Maybe that's driving around a quiet residential neighborhood then working her way up to busier thoroughfares. My suggestion would be to be there to advise and encourage her on her road to adulthood, and try to not enable her to avoid things you know she is capable of. For me, when the desire was strong enough and I wanted things bad enough, I walked through the fear and got on the other side of it.