When a Parent Starts Dating Again

Answer: Put your parent's happiness ahead of your own discomfort. Communicate to your parent that you want him or her to be fulfilled in every way, including romantically, and give them permission to go out and pursue that. But it's OK to draw reasonable boundaries. Nobody should have to hear details about a parent's sex life, so if the dialogue ventures into territory you're uncomfortable with, say so. Supporting this phase of your parent's life is a chance for you to demonstrate your love and support for your parent during a difficult time—as good a time as any to start interacting as peers.