The Catskill Chronicle

Twice Divorced – By Grayce Goin

Dear Twice Divorced,

After my 15-year-old daughter returns home from visitation with her father (my ex), she is flippant and short with me for a few days. Eventually, things return to normal and she acts like nothing happened. But I’m still hurt by her behavior.

What can I do?

Distressed Mother

Dear Distressed,

I suggest that after her next visitation with her father, you give your daughter whatever time she needs to get back to normal. Then sit down and talk to her about your concerns. Is there a problem with her relationship with her father? Is there a new woman in his life who is having a problem with your daughter or vice versa? Is she starting to resent the time she spends with her father because it takes her away from activities with her friends? Is it some combination of all these things? You need to find out what is causing this behavior before you can really address it.

You may want to note the things she says which upset you so that you will be able to give her specifics. Whatever else you do, do not let this degenerate into an argument — staying calm and even toned will help convince your daughter of the sincerity of your concern and the discomfort level you suffer at her hands.

Be Well

Letters can be sent to deartwice@yahoo.com or Catskill.Chronicle@yahoo.com. Be sure to put Twice Divorced in the subject line.

To view all of the cartoons for Twice Divorced or to purchase prints visit the Chronicle on Zenfolio.