Your question suggests that your son will feel powerless if after having expressed himself, he doesn’t get his way. If that were a truism, then you must always fulfill the needs of the articulate. I suspect that underneath this story, the story-teller feels uncertain about her own power base, causing you to project your feelings upon your son. You may have felt that no matter how articulate you were, it never mattered or changed a thing in your marriage. As a result, you may feel powerless and question whether you will be able to raise your son successfully as a single parent. I suspect the question of whose being left feeling powerless is you. Regarding your son, you are to be commended for encouraging him to express his feelings. Some of his feelings can be fairly painful to express and for you to hear. Remember, power resides in the person who is able to express themselves, whether or not they get their way. His fear is most likely that his life will continue to change without his having an opportunity to participate in its future. Look to provide him a role in minor decision making. Remember, divorce is a tough affair for people at any age. Question: Who’s as sensitive to you as you appear to be with your son?