What is "empty nest syndrome" typically associated with?

Empty nest syndrome is typically characterized by a feeling of loss or sadness that parents experience when their children leave the family home. This phenomenon often occurs when children move out for college, work, or start their own families, leaving parents to adjust to their absence. The emotional impact can manifest as feelings of loneliness, grief, or a sense of purposelessness, as the parents may struggle to find meaning in their lives once their primary parenting responsibilities diminish.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of empty nest syndrome; for instance, while some may feel joy or relief when children leave home, this is not representative of the syndrome itself, which focuses on the emotional challenges rather than positive feelings. Similarly, the desire to travel after retirement or increased family gatherings do not relate directly to the emotional aspects of dealing with an empty nest. Instead, these actions could occur independently of the feelings associated with empty nest syndrome. Thus, the correct understanding of the phenomenon centers on the emotional responses linked to the departure of children from the household.