Parents can have a whole spectrum of reactions when the time comes for their kids to leave the nest and take their first steps towards independence. Some are devastated to see them leave, and others can’t get rid of them fast enough. 

When it comes to this latter option, though, plenty of moms and dads are still willing to save a space for their children back at home—in particular if they’re likely to be back and forth, as is often the case with college students. 

However, some parents are a little too eager to shut the door behind their kids as soon as they venture out into the world. They want to take their space back, and do what they please with it without worrying about any annoying complaints. It is no surprise that this can be the root of friction in adult parent-child relationships, and at its worst, the fallout can be dramatic.