it is sad, but this is the reality of some people's lives. being crippled with debt is a choice and a way out. it is not really crippled and she wouldnt have to pay it until after she graduates. she could move out, get a job and support herself and never have anything to do with her mom again. the payments on loans are really not that high, you just pay them for the rest of your life. it is a pain to apply for scholarships, but she can do that as well. and there are grants out there as possibilities as well. if she wants out bad enough, she will take on the debt. Or she can find a friend to move in with but she will still have to take out the loans to go to college. she wont make enough to pay for it on her own. she is an adult, there is no way her mom can keep her in the home. there really arent many other choices.....you dont mention dad...is he an option?