This article discusses a recently published book by David de Vaus, entitled, Letting Go, which examines the dynamics of adult child - parent relationships. The book queries whether close involvement with family necessarily assists in mutual support and exchange. De Vaus classifies adult parent - child relationships into four types: parent centred; child centred; remote; and attached. The first two types of relationships are one sided, being manipulated by either the parent or adult child. The remote relationship does not involve support or assistance. It is only in the attached relationship where both sides respect each other's privacy and yet maintain a caring relationship, that the relationship can be said to be a supportive and functional one.