I agree with many of the answers on here in that it probably wasn’t the wisest, best, or most loving decision.

However, as a member of the “middle class” living in CA, with 3 kids, having 10’s of thousands of dollars taken out of our pay each year resulting in it nearly being impossible to make ends meet — I understand the dangers of the government taking what THEY feel is appropriate and determining what is enough.

For anyone ready to jump on me for this, we are not selfish people. We do give to the needy, volunteer with the homeless and hungry, contribute our time and our wealth to the community around us. Generosity is easier however when you don’t have to weigh whether to give to charity or pay a bill at the end of the month.

Now - for a better solution (IMHO).

Start by taking your son back into your home. Begin by treating him as a person and apologizing for your mistake. Apologize for throwing him out, frightening and giving up on him for having a different opinion (trust me - you’ll get a lot farther with reestablishing trust and love, and ultimately the appropriate power of a parent).

Next step - explain to him that you respect his age and his ability to make decisions and have opinions of his own.

Then - have him go get a job.

Structure your home according to socialist beliefs. He will need to begin to contribute to the family finances. Everyone gets what they need. No one gets what they don’t. Extra privileges are revoked unless everyone is participating. Dates become family outings. Money that is earned is part of the general pool and everyone works equally at all tasks.

Set a time limit on this experiment if you need to. Let him know its happening. See what changes for better or worse. Perhaps at the end he will understand the benefits of keeping what he has worked for and earned himself rather than letting the “state” determine his needs and the needs of the people around him.