Navigating Family Estrangement: Why Political Differences Aren’t an Excuse for Disconnecting

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Estranging Family Over Politics: A Rising Trend With Potential Mental Health Costs

September 9, 2025

A clinical psychologist is sounding the alarm regarding the increasing practice of individuals cutting off family members over political differences, a behavior often promoted as self-care on social media platforms. Dr. Chloe Carmichael cautions that such actions may inadvertently fuel loneliness and worsen overall mental health. She asserts that disconnecting from vital support systems, including family, is detrimental, comparing it unfavorably to adopting unhealthy lifestyle choices.

The Erosion of Family Bonds

Carmichael,author of “Can I Say That? Why free Speech Matters and How to Use It Fearlessly,” explains that alienating loved ones over political ideologies weakens family resilience,emotional stability,and the freedom of expression. She notes a notably pronounced trend among younger Americans, with a rising number choosing to end relationships with parents or relatives who express support for former President Donald Trump. This phenomenon reflects a broader societal polarization, where political beliefs increasingly define personal relationships.

Recent data underscores the severity of the mental health crisis, particularly among young adults.Gallup polls reveal a growing negativity in Americans’ self-assessments of their mental health over the past two decades. Notably, the percentage of young adults, aged 18 to 29, reporting “excellent” mental health has plummeted by 27 percentage points in the last ten years, with young women experiencing some of the most significant declines.

The “Five Ds” and the Loneliness Epidemic

Carmichael connects this trend to research from Tufts University, which indicates that individuals identifying as liberal often report lower levels of mental well-being compared to their conservative counterparts. Her research also identifies a pattern of behavior among liberals, characterized by what she terms the “five Ds”: defriending on social media, creating physical distance, ending relationships, uninviting speakers, and avoiding dating those with differing political views.

“We are witnessing an epidemic of loneliness, and this isolation is demonstrably harmful to mental health,” Carmichael stated.”If you’re part of a political group that tends to sever ties over disagreements, it’s not surprising that feelings of isolation are increasing.”

The Importance of Resilience and Open Dialog

While acknowledging that boundaries are essential in situations involving abuse or threats, Carmichael urges caution against making estrangement the default response to political disagreements. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating resilience and maintaining relationships, even amidst profound differences. “What we need to learn is how to be resilient and how to have relationships. Even if we disagree,a diversity of opinions enriches our lives,” she asserts.

Carmichael highlights the positive impact of free expression on mental health, promoting authentic relationships and bolstering social support systems. she explains that openly acknowledging and naming emotions can reduce activity in the amygdala, the brain region associated with fear, fostering a more stable emotional state.

To navigate these complex family dynamics, Carmichael advocates for a practice she calls “listening resiliently.” This involves actively seeking to understand opposing viewpoints, asking clarifying questions, and resisting the urge to immediately interject with one’s own opinions. She also suggests reflecting on instances where one’s own views have evolved, fostering empathy and open-mindedness.

Navigating Political Differences in Families: A long-Term Perspective

The issue of political division within families is not new, but the intensity and prevalence of this phenomenon appear to be escalating in recent years. Experts suggest that factors such as the 24/7 news cycle, the rise of social media echo chambers, and increasing political polarization contribute to this trend.

Establishing healthy boundaries, practicing active listening, and prioritizing respectful interaction are crucial strategies for mitigating conflict and preserving family relationships. It is significant to remember that political beliefs do not define a person’s inherent worth, and maintaining connections based on shared values and experiences can foster greater understanding and empathy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Estrangement and Politics

• Q: Is it ever okay to cut off family members over political disagreements?

  A: while boundaries are critically important, especially in abusive situations, estrangement should be a last resort.

• Q: how can I communicate with family members who hold opposing political views?

  A: Practice active listening, ask questions, and avoid immediately interjecting with your own opinions.

• Q: What is “listening resiliently”?

  A: It’s the practice of trying to understand another person’s perspective without interrupting or judging.

• Q: Can political disagreements negatively impact my mental health?

  A: Yes, especially if they lead to isolation, anxiety, or feelings of resentment.

• Q: What role dose social media play in political division?

  A: Social media can create echo chambers and amplify extreme viewpoints, exacerbating political polarization.

What steps will you take to foster more constructive dialogue within your own family? Do you believe social media is contributing to increased political division?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!