How can parents support a young adult requesting work accommodations?

This is a delicate balance, and your awareness of not wanting to overstep already matters. Clinically, the most helpful role for parents is coaching, not advocating. Young adults need to feel ownership over the request, especially in a first job where identity and independence are forming. You can support by helping them clarify what they actually need rather than what feels scary to ask for. Accommodations work best when they are specific, practical, and tied to job performance. Help them practice the conversation. Not scripting every word, but talking through how to explain needs calmly and professionally. Many young adults benefit from reframing accommodations as tools to do their job well, not as special treatment. That mindset reduces shame and anxiety. You can also normalize the fear. Anxiety around disclosure is common, especially early on. Remind them that accommodations can be modest and adjustable, and that requesting support does not mean they are incapable. What helps most is being a steady base. Listen without rushing to fix. Ask what kind of support they want from you, emotional reassurance, practice, or problem solving. When parents stay in the background but remain available, young adults are more likely to build confidence and self advocacy skills that last beyond this first job.