Concerned Parents and Individuals Seek Advice

Introduction to the Problems

A mother from Texas is concerned about her 20-year-old son who lives with her and her husband. The son works full-time but does not contribute to the household by doing chores or paying for his expenses, including car insurance, which he had agreed to pay. Furthermore, he moved his girlfriend and a dog into the house without permission. The son claims to have anxiety and depression, which he treats with marijuana. When his parents try to discuss his future plans, including helping out at home or paying any form of support, it often ends in a screaming match, with the son punching walls.

Advice for the Parents

In response to the mother’s concerns, it’s suggested that if she and her husband do not want their son to live with them indefinitely without taking any responsibility, they should assert themselves. They should inform their son that, given his full-time employment, he should have saved enough to make a down payment on his own apartment for himself, his girlfriend, and the dog. The parents should set a deadline for him to move out. If the son’s behavior continues, such as hitting walls, they should tell him to stop immediately or call the police. It’s also noted that unless the son has a doctor’s prescription for marijuana, he is breaking the law in Texas by using it to self-medicate.

Concerns About the Future and Aging

A millennial is concerned about not having children due to the current state of the world, including rising costs, social injustices, crime, and global warming. However, this individual is worried about who will care for them when they become immobile with age. The advice given is that having children as a means to ensure care in old age is not a reliable plan. Instead, individuals should plan for their retirement and consult with a lawyer or financial planner to ensure they have enough assets to secure the help they may need in the future.

Financial Disagreements in Marriage

A woman from Pennsylvania is facing an issue where she and her husband file taxes together, but when they receive a tax refund, he refuses to give her any of the money. Despite both of them working and contributing financially, his refusal to share the refund is seen as selfish and controlling. The woman is advised to feel frustrated and angry about this situation. The course of action suggested depends on how assertive she is willing to be. She should consider discussing with her husband how the refund money is being used and potentially applying it towards next year’s taxes or other shared financial goals.