"Being too supportive creates dependency" I think you can tell when you're being taken advantage of. I know I sure can! The other person needs to make decisions on their own and at least try to do some things for themselves. To me, the answer is obvious... maybe because I've had people depend on me too much.

I'm in a situation now with my youngest. He needs $800 some of which is for rent. Excuse me?? WHY?? Because they mismanage their money all the time. I may bail him out on the rent this time, but along with the cash, they're getting a book on budgeting!

"Give a man a fish and you feed him today. Teach the man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." I think this has been quoted here just recently.