Q: Scott,
I have been reading your column for some time now. I have a problem concerning my teenage daughter.
The story starts when she was 15, or I should say when I became divorced. She misses her father, but due to his drug and liquor use, and his new wife, he is not the same person she remembers. In fact, I can relate to your letter on the Bad Dad.
Well, since the contact with her father was short at that time and the rejection that he dished out was painful, she has made some very bad choices with boyfriends and it has escalated to what is now the problem.
You see, she is now 17 and pregnant with this guy’s child and she doesn’t like him for many reasons (I wish she had seen him for what he was like before). As it stands, she’s as hurt and confused about the situation.
She doesn’t believe in abortion and I commend her for that. She could take this mistake and turn it around and give a great gift of love to a family in need.
Though she is considering this option, she is still confused. How do I help guide her? I need answers to her questions. Help.
– Confused Mom
SCOTT: I commend you for your ability to be such a supportive and loving mother. Your daughter’s lucky to have you!
Not only have you filled in for dad, but you’ve clearly been the only stability in her life. But now that she’s pregnant, she needs even more guidance and you can’t do it alone.
Undoubtedly, she’s going through a multitude of emotions right now and will most definitely benefit from counseling. Local crisis pregnancy centers and agencies are a good option, and just what she needs to make the right decisions in her life.
Above all else, you will be the greatest source of support in your daughter’s future, but seek outside support for the rough spots.
She’s got her whole life ahead of her, and with your guidance and support that trek will be a whole lot easier!