Many people are cutting off their parents primarily due to long-standing issues such as emotional or physical abuse, neglect, boundary violations, and feeling unsupported or unaccepted by their parents. This decision is often not impulsive but results from years of harmful parental behavior, trauma, or fundamental differences in values, political beliefs, or identity (e.g., sexual or gender identity). Adult children may also distance themselves to protect their mental health when attempts to repair the relationship fail or when parents exhibit toxic behaviors like betrayal or indifference. Increased social acceptance of setting boundaries and choosing "no contact" has also contributed to more people making this difficult choice. Key reasons include:
- Emotional or physical abuse and neglect
- Parental boundary violations or toxic behavior
- Feeling unsupported, unaccepted, or emotionally abandoned
- Differences in religion, culture, politics, or identity
- Protecting mental health and well-being
- Long-standing unresolved conflicts or betrayal
This trend reflects a shift in societal norms where cutting off parents is increasingly seen as a form of self-protection and personal growth rather than just a taboo or last resort.
