How to navigate older children moving back home

As economic and social dynamics continue to shift, more young adults are moving back in with their parents — a phenomenon often described as the “boomerang generation”.

- Camilla Foster, The Independent

A recent survey commissioned by NatWest highlights this growing trend, revealing that nearly a quarter (23%) of UK parents have had their adult children return home, typically for a period of about two years. The research, conducted by Yonder Consulting and based on responses from 2,000 UK adults, found that the average age of those moving back is 26. In addition, 42% of mothers surveyed said they would be happy to welcome their children back as adults, as would just over a third (34%) of fathers. However, the financial aspect isn’t overlooked — as 60% of parents said they either do charge or would consider charging rent.

We got in touch with family psychotherapist Fiona Yassin, founder and clinical director of The Wave Clinic, who has highlighted some of the potential challenges that can arise in this living situation, and has shared some advice on how families can successfully navigate this transition. How can the dynamics change when older children move back home after a period of independent living — and what potential conflicts can arise?