My 22-Year-Old Son Threatens to Leave the House and Go Live With My Ex-Husband Unless I Buy Him a Car

My son is Michael. He had just turned 22 last month, and I thought we had passed the turbulent teenage years. Little did I know, a storm was brewing right under my nose.

“Mom, we need to talk,” Michael said, leaning against the counter.
“Sure, what’s on your mind?” I replied, curious.
“I need a car,” he stated seriously.
I paused. “A car? But you were saving from your job.”
“It’s taking too long, and I need it now,” he insisted, frustration creeping into his voice.
“Cars are expensive, Michael. You can keep saving,” I replied.
He interrupted, “I can’t wait anymore! All my friends have cars, and I want my freedom.”
Frustrated, I said, “We can’t afford it right now. It’s not that simple.”
“Maybe I’ll just live with Dad. He’ll buy me one,” he shot back.
“Don’t threaten to leave because you’re not getting what you want,” I said, trying to stay calm.
“Why not? He spoils me,” he retorted defiantly.
I took a deep breath. “This is about responsibility. Being an adult means making smart choices.”
He rolled his eyes. “Yeah, like being the only one without a car.”
The days that followed were tense, filled with silent treatments.
At dinner, I tried again. “Can we talk about the car?”
“What’s there to say? You won’t buy me one,” he sighed.
“It’s not just about that; it’s about how you’re handling it,” I said, feeling frustrated.
He shot back, “I’m just tired of waiting. Dad would understand.”
“Dad isn’t here, and a car won’t solve everything—what about insurance and maintenance?” I asked, hoping he’d see my point.
He pushed his plate away. “Forget it, Mom. You’ll never understand.”
As he left the table, guilt washed over me. Days turned into weeks, and the tension only grew, with Michael spending more time away or isolated in his room.