A recent clip of Whoopi Goldberg sharing her views on parenting during an episode of “The View” has ignited a debate on social media. The episode, aired on January 25 and shared on ABC’s Instagram account, features Goldberg stating that parents shouldn’t be friends with their children until they reach a certain age in adulthood. “You cannot be friends with your kids,” Goldberg asserted. “When you have to do the things you have to do as a parent —”

Goldberg’s statement prompted her co-host Joy Behar to ask at what age one should become friends with their children. Goldberg responded by citing her “tight” friendship with her daughter, which only developed when her daughter turned 26. Goldberg explained that her daughter went through significant changes during her teenage years and only emerged as a friend-worthy adult in her mid-20s.

This conversation is reminiscent of a previous episode from September 19, 2023, where Goldberg and co-host Sunni Hostin debated the same topic. Hostin argued against being friends with adult children, expressing concern about the challenges of setting boundaries if a parent-child relationship is too friendly. Hostin shared her own experience, emphasizing the importance of maintaining authority as a parent, even with her then 17-year-old daughter and 21-year-old son.

Goldberg disagreed, stating that true friendship with one’s children should only develop after they have become self-sufficient adults. She emphasized that while she is friends with her adult grandchildren, she maintains a clear boundary with younger grandchildren, such as her 9-year-old. Hostin, on the other hand, expressed a different dynamic with her mother, indicating a preference for maintaining a respectful but not necessarily friendly relationship.

The public’s response to Goldberg’s stance has been mixed. Some fans supported her view, arguing that many parents today blur the lines of authority and friendship, leading to issues with discipline and respect. “Facts!!! Too many parents being friends and that’s why this generation is so screwed,” one fan commented. Others noted the importance of creating a safe and open environment for children without necessarily being their friends. “You can’t be friends but you do have to be a safe space for them to be able to talk to you about anything,” another fan added.

Goldberg’s opinion that parents should wait until their children are fully functional adults to befriend them resonated with some. A fan remarked, “Yup!! She’s right!! My kids are in their 30’s now!! They’re my best friends!!” Another echoed, “Whoopi is absolutely correct. Stay in your parent lane! Don’t be friends with ‘kids’ until they’re fully functional adults. Those who know, know!”

Candace Owens, a prominent conservative commentator, weighed in on the controversy, harshly criticizing Goldberg’s stance. Owens labeled Goldberg’s view as “toxic shallowness,” arguing that it undermines the potential for deep, meaningful relationships between parents and their children. Owens suggested that maintaining an authoritative rather than friendly role until a child reaches adulthood could foster resentment and hinder open communication within families.

Owens’ critique highlights a broader cultural clash over parenting philosophies. While some advocate for clear boundaries and authoritative parenting styles, others believe in nurturing close, friendly relationships from a young age to build trust and openness. The debate underscores the evolving nature of parenting and the diverse perspectives on how best to raise and relate to children.

In conclusion, Goldberg’s comments on parenting have sparked a significant discussion, reflecting the varying beliefs about the roles parents should play in their children’s lives. Whether one agrees with Goldberg or Owens, the debate emphasizes the importance of finding a balance that works for each family, fostering both respect and connection.