Dear Abby columnist Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, offered guidance to a parent whose adult daughter is supporting her mother following a first-degree murder charge. The mother is accused of killing her younger child, who is the adult daughter's half-sibling.
"Managing the Repercussions," the parent wrote, expressing difficulty in supporting his daughter, who stated she already lost one sibling and does not want to lose her mother as well. The daughter's mother had previously been critical of psychotherapy, but is now pleading not guilty by reason of insanity.
Abby advised the parent to refrain from questioning his daughter's choice to support her mother. "Women in their right minds do not kill their children," Abby wrote, adding that criticism of mental health care can stem from insecurity. "As upset as you are about this, your daughter has every right to support her mother through this tragedy if she wishes."
The advice column also addressed other reader concerns. One individual, "Fuming in Texas," described the frustration of meeting couples who have already started eating and drinking before the arriving party sits down, deeming the behavior rude. Abby acknowledged the rudeness but suggested that low blood sugar might be a factor.
Another letter from "Trapped in Long Beach" detailed a 48-year-old woman living with her parents, citing her mother's constant snooping, critical comments, and dismissive behavior. The daughter, who is experiencing messiness, procrastination, and job loss, is concerned about her self-esteem. Abby recommended that the daughter speak with her doctor to explore potential medical explanations for her issues and to seek a referral to a family counselor if the problems are not medical. Moving out was also suggested as a long-term solution.
Dear Abby was founded by Pauline Phillips and is currently written by her daughter, Jeanne Phillips. The column can be reached via http://www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.