My friend asked me for guidance regarding her son, so I am passing the question on.

Her very talented son is a senior in high school. Since it is his last year at home, he feels that he no longer needs input from his parents. His is a very bright, well-mannered and popular young man who was home-schooled until 9th grade. His parents feel he has had limited exposure to "the real world" and that he would continue to benefit from their guidance.

They do not want this transition to mar their very good relationship and create a problem between them. Yet, research indicates that the human brain is not fully mature until about 21 years of age. They recognize the importance of the decisions he makes at this time in his life for impacting his future.

What are your suggestions? How can they promote his independence, but provide parental guidance and the benefit of their age and experience?