Reader’s Question: I have seen my 7-year-old daughter every other weekend since I divorced her mom two years ago. My daughter’s behavior with me is absolutely horrible, to the point where I now dread her coming over. My ex-wife is a real pain and a terrible mother, so I really can’t speak with her about our daughter. Any ideas on what I can do to get my daughter’s behavior under control?
Dr. Ramey’s Answer: Stop whining about your ex-spouse. You can’t solve this problem without talking with your ex-wife. Regardless of whatever may have happened during your marriage and divorce, you need to put the love of your child ahead of your feelings toward your ex-spouse. If your daughter’s mom is unwilling to talk with you directly, ask if she would be willing to go with you to a child therapist to help deal with your daughter’s problems.
These youngsters are among the saddest I treat because most of these problems are caused by selfish and immature parents.
Reprinted by permission from the November 16, 2008, edition of the Dayton Daily News, “For your child’s sake, work … Read More... “For Your Child’s Sake, Work With Ex-Spouse – Dr. Ramey Doesn’t Mince His Words!”