The rise of low-contact family relationships
Theguardian reports that some people are choosing ‘‘low contact’’ (LC) — reducing but not severing ties — as an alternative to ‘‘no contact’’ (NC) in family estrangement. The approach is presented in the article as a way to protect mental health while preserving some connections, for example allowing grandchildren to see grandparents.
Marie, in her 40s, describes stopping answering her mother’s calls and only ringing with a clear purpose, saying ‘‘I call when I need to’’ and using deflection rather than apologies when her mother complains. Georgina, in her 30s, keeps contact very short and child-focused: her mother looks after the grandchildren once a week but conversations are limited and family meet-ups happen mainly so the children can see each other.