Boundaries That Heal: How to Love Your Adult Child Without Losing Yourself

Feel like you’re walking on eggshells or being taken for granted? This episode reveals why setting boundaries isn’t rejection—it’s redemption. Learn how to set limits with love, stop enabling dysfunction, and build a stronger, more respectful relationship with your adult child through faith-filled courage.

Welcome to another episode of Warfare Parenting: Faith-driven strategies for struggling parents of teens and adult children with your host Laine Lawson Craft and special guest Kathy Cunningham. Join us as we dive into setting healthy boundaries with adult children, overcoming guilt and fear, and using faith as a roadmap to lasting peace in your home.

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Resources & Links Mentioned

• LaneLawsonCraft.com – Free resources, book: Warfare: A Daily Battle Plan to Fight for Your Child (first 10 days free)
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• Sign up for Laine’s Inspirational Weekly emails at her site LaineLawsonCraft.com
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• Please email any prayer requests or needs to [email protected]
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• Kathy Cunningham on Instagram –
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• Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL group): palgroup.org

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Kathy Cunningham

is a seasoned Christian coach, ministry leader, and boundary-setting expert with over 30 years of experience helping parents navigate tough relationships with their adult children. Drawing from her personal journey and years of professional coaching, Kathy specializes in equipping families with biblical, practical tools for healthier, more respectful connections. She leads support groups for parents of addicted loved ones and recently launched an online community for parents seeking guidance and mutual support. Kathy’s mission is to empower parents to stand in love, foster independence in their children, and restore hope in families by setting boundaries grounded in faith and compassion.

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Key Talking Points

• Boundaries protect relationships, not damage them—why clarity and love go hand-in-hand
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• Common boundary issues: finances, living arrangements, and emotional involvement
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• How healthy boundaries foster respect, responsibility, and growth in adult children
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• Steps to set and communicate boundaries effectively, especially after years of loose limits
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• Managing parental guilt, fear of conflict, and emotional pushback when boundaries are enforced
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• Handling manipulative behaviors and staying consistent to build trust
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• Boundaries as a foundation for healing in addiction and recovery
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• Common mistakes: moving too fast, using boundaries to control, or being inconsistent
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• The importance of community and support for parents

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Timestamps

 00:00 - Introduction: Why Boundaries Matter 2:19 - Why Parents Must Set Boundaries With Adult Children 3:38 - How Boundaries Build Mutual Respect 4:30 - First Steps to Setting Healthy Boundaries 5:30 - Communicating Boundaries Effectively 6:44 - Examples: Financial, Living, and Emotional Boundaries 8:48 - Navigating Negative Emotions: Guilt & Fear 11:22 - Responding to Pushback & Manipulation 13:12 - The Power of Consistency 14:51 - Tracking Progress & Adjusting Boundaries 16:28 - Boundaries Build Independence & Growth 17:31 - Boundaries in Addiction & Recovery 20:05 - The “Guardrail” Analogy 20:46 - Misconceptions About Boundaries 23:12 - Common Mistakes to Avoid 24:37 - Healthy Parents Raise Independent Adults 25:37 - Kathy’s Community and Support Resources 27:44 - The Importance of Support and Community 28:24 - Conclusion: Faith, Boundaries & Hope 29:02 - Where to Find Kathy Cunningham & Free Resources

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Conclusion

Setting boundaries is not a sign of rejection but an act of profound love that brings healing and hope to families. By embracing faith-filled courage and consistent action, you can foster respect, clarity, and lasting independence in your adult child—while finding peace in your own heart. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey.