Should Your Child Go to College?
My answer is simple: It's up to them. If they have the drive and the interest, and want to go to college, they should. If they don't want to, there's no sense in attempting to force them. Can you present convincing arguments for or against college? Yes. But that said, the decision is theirs, as it should be. This goes back to the article on Your Role. Your child is no longer a child - they are an adult, at the level of functioning and intelligence that at least one of you is considering college for them.
The only decision in this matter that is up to you is whether you'll play game. This choice is completely up to you and your judgment. Individual family situations vary dramatically, so I can't tell you what to do in this situation. I can, however, tell you to listen to your heart. It's easy to get your own gut feeling overwhelmed by all the advice from others, but in reality you know your child the best. Feel free to consult with others that know your child well, too; best friends, siblings, etc, or professionals such as psychologists. But in the end, the decision's up to you.
I personally would recommend that, once your child has made a firm decision, supporting them at least emotionally, whether it be congratulating them on productive days of job hunting or getting accepted to the college of their choice. That said, whether you support them financially is another matter altogether.
The only decision in this matter that is up to you is whether you'll play game. This choice is completely up to you and your judgment. Individual family situations vary dramatically, so I can't tell you what to do in this situation. I can, however, tell you to listen to your heart. It's easy to get your own gut feeling overwhelmed by all the advice from others, but in reality you know your child the best. Feel free to consult with others that know your child well, too; best friends, siblings, etc, or professionals such as psychologists. But in the end, the decision's up to you.
I personally would recommend that, once your child has made a firm decision, supporting them at least emotionally, whether it be congratulating them on productive days of job hunting or getting accepted to the college of their choice. That said, whether you support them financially is another matter altogether.