Friend's dss has announced his intention of taking a backpacking trip. Backpack ready, money in bank, and apparently intends to leave in the very near future.
DSS is around 19/20 (not exactly sure), HFA, and by her account has never so much as ridden public transit independently, but is adamant he is off. She is v concerned that he is going to get himself into all manner of situations as he is not good at reading people/ social situations, and is likely to get into cars he shouldn't hitch hiking etc.
DSS wants to do it to make his dad proud of him (dad is very outdoorsy etc)
Friend is on the other side of the country to him, and his mum is beside herself.
In these sort of situations, I strongly believe that people should not be told they can't do x, y or z because of their different abilities, but that we should be seeking out ways that they can achieve what they want to do safely... But I think my friend wants me to agree that he must be stopped at all costs...
Any ideas? my first thought was to suggest a buddy/ travel partner (he has a brother that if it were my son I would be leaning on - although I get all the reasons why the NT brother shouldn't have to step up too) but does anyone have any ideas that I can suggest as to how to make this a safe possibility?
My heart says this young adult is in desperate need of independence (with parameters) but obviously i haven't raised him, and they know him best. I just don't know where you stand with vulnerable 'adults' and control of their actions. He works etc, and was planning to come and stay with his dad and stepmom this summer and work here. He seems to have just decided he wants to make this stand and is adamant he is going...
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Independent backpacking?
3 replies
madwomanbackintheattic · 29/04/2015 18:15
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