Dear Abby Column Addresses Teenage Deception and Long-Term Friendships
Advice columnist weighs in on a father's concern over his daughter's manipulative behavior and a reader's dilemma about attending a former friend's funeral.
Dear Abby is addressing a complex situation where a father is concerned about his 16-year-old daughter's deceptive behavior toward a male friend. The daughter, described as popular and charming, is reportedly leading on a boy named Henry, who has a crush on her. Henry, a student who excels academically but is not in the daughter's social circle, has been assisting her with school projects and other favors under the impression of a potential romantic interest.
The father, who has come to know Henry and likes him, expressed disgust at his daughter's actions, stating she justified her behavior by saying she was "just using what God gave her" to improve her life. He is concerned about his daughter potentially hurting Henry.
In her response, Dear Abby advised the father that Henry would inevitably be hurt when the truth emerges. She recommended that the daughter be informed that such behavior must cease immediately. Abby suggested that if the daughter does not come clean and offer a sincere apology to Henry, she should face consequences, emphasizing the need for parental follow-through on discipline for self-centered behavior.
The column also addressed a separate letter from a reader in New Hampshire, who has been estranged from a college friend of over 45 years. The friend had previously told the reader that she belonged in a mental institution due to her temper. The two have not communicated for several months after a disagreement. The reader, now facing medical issues and using a walker, wondered if she should attend her friend's funeral if one of them passes, especially considering potential accessibility issues at the place of worship.
Dear Abby suggested that in light of their long friendship, the reader should inform her friend about her health issues and express a desire not to end their friendship on its current terms. Regarding the funeral dilemma, Abby stated that funerals are for the support of the living. She advised the reader to contact the funeral service conductor to inquire about ADA accessibility at the venue. Abby concluded that there is no need to avoid attending based on potential future obstacles.