As parents, how should we respond to a teenager who argues that the recreational use of pot is socially acceptable, that the authorities aren’t concerned about it anymore, and that it’s on the verge of being legalized. We know he’s been using marijuana, but when we confronted him about it he flatly refused to stop. …
Family Q&A
What are some of the child-rearing disagreements most likely to arise between first-time parents? We’re expecting our first child, and we’re trying to do everything we can to prepare ourselves before the fact. Can you give us some good advice?
What should we do if we suspect that our adolescent son is making plans to run away? Is there something we can do to prevent this from happening?
How do we relate to an adult child in prison? It’s painful to admit this, but through a series of unfortunate circumstances and poor choices, our grown son has been incarcerated. I can’t even begin to describe how horrible we feel. How can we reach out and support him without enabling or appearing to condone …
How can a single mom find a man (or several men) capable of providing the masculine influence and guidance her children need as they approach puberty? I feel it’s important for them to have good male role models to look up to and learn from. Any ideas on how I should go about finding one?
Is it a good idea for children to get involved in sports, dance classes, music lessons, and other commitments outside of their school work and household chores? How much of this kind of thing is too much? Can you suggest any practical guidelines?
When should parents start talking with their sons about what it means to be a God-honoring husband and father? Our boy isn’t even in his teens yet, but we want to be sure to lay a strong foundation before it’s too late. Should we wait until after puberty? Or would it be better to hold …
What should I do if I’m convinced that my adolescent child is seriously depressed and could be suicidal?
Is there any real evidence that dads really have a uniquely important impact in the lives of their children? Our culture seems to place little value on the role of fathers. I see evidence of this everywhere, from pop culture and media to government policy. My own experience and belief system tell me that fatherhood …
Can you help me figure out where my teenage daughter’s anger is coming from? A few years ago I would have described her as a soft-spoken, contented, happy-go-lucky little girl. Now she seems disgruntled most of the time and lashes out in fury at the drop of a hat. Sometimes I have no idea what …
What factors do we need to consider – what should we look for and what should we avoid – when selecting a daycare facility for our child? Some of our friends and family have had bad experiences in this area. Naturally, we’d like to avoid that if at all possible. Do you have any suggestions?
What does our church need to know before launching an adoption ministry? What’s involved in tackling a project like this? Can you suggest any resources?
My doctor told me that I’ll be risking my own life by carrying my baby to term. Should I have an abortion? I was so excited when I learned that I was pregnant, but now I’m devastated and confused.
Will marriage counseling be effective if my spouse has an active addiction and won’t get help?
Am I obligated to take care of my parents even though they hurt me in many ways during my growing-up years? Our family was really dysfunctional. Now they’re old, feeble and increasingly unable to look after themselves, and I’m not sure how I feel about getting involved in caring for them given our past. What …
Should I consider remarrying my ex-spouse for the sake of our child? We are both Christians, but we recently got divorced. Over the past few weeks I’ve become increasingly concerned about the impact of this family breakup upon our preschooler. What do you think I should do?
How do we locate a qualified marriage counselor? Do you have any recommendations? My spouse and I need help, but we don’t know who to see or what to look for.
Is it fair for me to feel hurt and upset when I see my husband turn and look at other women?
I’ve just discovered that my spouse has been cheating on me. As you can imagine, I was devastated when I first learned of his infidelity, and I still haven’t recovered from the shock. I have not confronted him yet and have no idea what I’m going to do. Can you give me some direction?
What’s your perspective on the ideal division of labor and the proper distinction between male and female tasks and roles in marriage? Lately my spouse and I have had disagreements about our respective chores and responsibilities at home.