In this episode Neil along with his co-host Robin, respond to questions from a mom concerned that her efforts to offer advice to her adult children have led to hurt feelings and misunderstandings. Mother is Indian and reports that advice-giving from elders is expected.

Today we’re answering a question from Anika of the NYC borough of Queens.  Anika writes:  

Dear Neil,

My daughter and my son act angry with me all the time.  They say I’m always criticizing them which doesn’t make any sense to me.  Both of my children are doing well.  My daughter is getting her Ph.D. in psychology and my son is the assistant manager of a grocery store.  They are both in their 20s and can benefit from guidance.  Whenever I say anything to them, they say rude things or walk away. I don’t understand why they are this way.  I grew up in India, and our elders always gave instructions on how to behave. I feel they need guidance about money management and other decisions they make, but they don’t respect my opinions.  What can I do to gain their respect?

Neil and Robin offer a new way for this mom to think about her adult children’s emotional needs and open up the discussion of cultural transformation.