While I certainly agree that having family members help with genuine financial needs is preferable to welfare, I disagree with the part of your statement that refers to housing prices.
I fear that too many kids today don't know what it's like to sacrifice, in order to get what's really important to them. Sure, housing prices in places like downtown Manhattan and the more chic places in California are outrageous, and probably beyond the reach of most 20-something college grads.
But, is living in those kinds of places truely imperative? Does a typical housing decsion always have to be: $3500/month, 1200 sq. ft. loft in Manhattan vs. going back to mom and dad's? Do those same living accomodations have to be supplied with the latest electronic gadgetry such as plasma TVs, digital cable, and furnished by Pottery Barn?
Couldn't that enterprising college graduate get a roommate, or take an apartment farther away from the trendy spots? That would go against everything that these young adults see on TV, and in the popular culture. Advertising almost suggests that adults in that age bracket live far beyond their means, and for the many that can't afford it, "going back to the parents" has to feel like the only other option.
Depends on the crime rate. When I was single, my folks would rather have me live at home, than in a neighborhood where I could get killed just for being white.
That has to have a lot to do with it - the electronics, automotive and "home improvement" industries have every 20 year old thinking he/she has to have a 60" plasma on the wall and a BMW in the driveway - MTV Cribs and whatnot.
Expectations and consumerism have driven credit card debt through the roof, so naturally the kid can't make it on an entry level income.