Pre-Empty Nest
This is the key event that happens.
What is kids graduating from high school?
This phase typically happens around this age range.
What is the early to mid-20s?
Parents start to feel some of these emotions when trying to adjust.
What is freedom, emptiness, and melancholy?
This is the main event that happens.
What is the house is "child free" for good?
This is the key event that happens during this phase
What is the return of adult children coming home permanently or temporarily?
What is excitement, and being anxious?
This key event happens and marks an important milestone for the child.
What is children formally move out?
What is exploring more free time (going on a vacation, taking up a hobby, etc.)?
These emotions felt by the parents are more personalized.
What is independence and contentment?
These are two of the negative emotions associated with refilling the nest
What is tension and annoyance?
This is the main focus for parents for this phase.
What is parents preparing for change?
This adjustment can cause parents to feel various emotions.
What is loneliness, sadness, and identity loss?
Parents start to shift their focuses away from their child to something else.
What is self-discovery, and enhancing their bond with spouses?
Parents forgo a critical moment during this time of focus for themselves.
What is retirement planning or personal fulfillment?
During refilling the nest, the parents often try to focus on these factors
What are financial, spatial, and role limits?