Ep 25. I'm Being Cut Off By My Parents
- November 5, 2011
In season 13 episode 25 of MTV's True Life, titled "I'm Being Cut Off By My Parents," viewers are transported into the lives of young adults who are dealing with estrangement and financial insecurity due to their parents choosing to cut them off. Divided into three separate incidents, each storyline explores the heartache and confusion that comes with the sudden end of the financial support system one has relied on their whole life.
The first subject we meet is 24-year-old Anthony, a fashion student who, after years of being financially supported by his parents, has been given a six-month deadline to transition to being completely independent. Anthony must now become self-sufficient and make his own ends meet, which proves to be especially difficult for a young adult living in New York City. With limited job options due to his school schedule, Anthony searches for side hustles and relies on food pantries to make ends meet. He also struggles with the fear that his parents may choose to never support him again, leaving him to fend for himself indefinitely.
Next, we meet 22-year-old Kayla, who has been financially cut off by her wealthy parents after they discovered her addiction to drugs. Kayla must now get by without the money her parents had initially given her to attend college, but instead used to purchase drugs. Kayla enlists the help of her boyfriend and friends to get through this difficult time. However, her parents' estrangement has left her with emotional as well as financial scars as she tries to heal and move on.
Lastly, we are introduced to 28-year-old Anne, who recounts how her dependence on her parents for financial support delayed her pursuit of independence. Anne is finally ready to live on her own and make her own money, but her parents are still intent on controlling her life. They continue to offer her money with strings attached, leading to a strained relationship between Anne and her parents.
Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse into the lives of these young adults as they confront obstacles that come with newfound independence and self-reliance. They must navigate uncharted waters, learning how to manage finances, relationships and personal struggles without the help of their parents. True Life season 13 episode 25, "I'm Being Cut Off By My Parents," provides a thought-provoking look at the complexities of growing up and the importance of autonomy and self-sufficiency.