Resolving Estrangement: Expert Advice from Dr. Joshua Coleman on Healing Family Estrangement

Boomer Banter, Real Talk about Aging Well

09/26/23 • 47 min

Introduction:

In this episode of Hey, Boomer!, host Wendy Green dives into the sensitive topic of family estrangement and explores the hidden wounds that can tear families apart. With the help of esteemed guest Dr. Joshua Coleman, author of "Rules of Estrangement," they discuss the rise of estrangement, changes in family dynamics, and the possibility of healing broken relationships. This episode offers support and guidance for those experiencing estrangement or those seeking to understand and empathize with loved ones going through this difficult situation.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Joshua Coleman is a renowned psychologist and leading expert on family estrangement. He is the author of several books, including "Rules of Estrangement: Why Adult Children Cut Ties & How to Heal the Conflict," which has resonated with many estranged parents seeking guidance and understanding. Dr. Coleman's research and therapeutic work address the deep emotional impact of estrangement on families and offer insights into navigating the path toward reconciliation.

Key Takeaways:

1. Estrangement is a silent hurt: Estrangement within families often goes unspoken, causing pain and isolation for those experiencing it. This episode shines a light on this issue and provides a safe space to discuss and heal from family estrangement.

2. The importance of empathy and understanding: Dr. Coleman emphasizes the significance of empathy and understanding when working to repair estranged relationships. Taking responsibility for past mistakes and truly listening to the concerns and feelings of the estranged family member plays a crucial role in the healing process.

3. The evolving dynamics of family: The societal and cultural shifts in recent generations have led to new expectations within parent-child relationships. Understanding the changes in dynamics and the desire for personal fulfillment and mental health is essential in bridging the gap between generations.

4. The challenge for estranged parents: Estranged parents may struggle with feelings of defensiveness and questioning their parenting abilities when accused of emotional abuse or neglect. Dr. Coleman provides insights on how to approach these accusations with empathy and initiate meaningful conversations.

5. Respect boundaries and let the line go cold, if needed: Respecting boundaries and giving space to the estranged family member is crucial in the healing process. The episode discusses the concept of "letting the line go cold" as a strategy to prompt reflection and respect while navigating attempts at reconciliation.

Join Wendy Green and Dr. Joshua Coleman as they explore the complexities of family estrangement and provide valuable insights and support for those seeking healing in their own strained relationships.

Subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Contact Dr. Coleman: www.drjoshuacoleman.com

Email me with questions or comments at [email protected]

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09/26/23 • 47 min

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Boomer Banter, Real Talk about Aging Well - Resolving Estrangement: Expert Advice from Dr. Joshua Coleman on Healing Family Estrangement

Transcript

Wendy Green [00:00:31]:

Well, hello, and welcome to Hey Boomer. My name is Wendy Greene, and I am your host for Hey Boomer. And continuing with our focus on the family that we've been talking about for this whole month, Today, we are going to be talking about the wound of estrangement and how it impacts us and affects us. And this is such an important episode because it's a silent, hurt that most of us don't talk about. But Maybe some of you know someone who is feeling like they're brea

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