Ask Amy: Long-married wife faces extreme surprise
They have a new baby. We have visited, avoiding contact with Brian.
He has yet to apologize and has shown no remorse. He has complete control over our daughter and is verbally abusive to her.
How can we maintain a relationship with our daughter in light of this?
Should I continued to avoid him?
Fearful Father-in-Law
Dear Fearful: I wish you had chosen to press charges when “Brian” assaulted you. This would have shown your daughter the reality of what she is facing.
At this point, you must do everything possible to stay close and supportive.
Your daughter is in an extremely dangerous situation.
Tell her, “We love and care about you. We are here for you and we want to help.”
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is a great resource. Check thehotline.org or call (800) 799-SAFE (7233) to talk to a counselor. Always call the police if you witness violence.
Dear Amy: Shame on your answer to “Pandemic Pandemonium” where you suggested that a woman who has stopped wearing makeup and fancy clothes might be suffering from depression!
Maybe you love getting dolled up every day, but I was truly disgusted by your sexist response.
Disgusted
Dear Disgusted: I don’t happen to wear makeup – ever. But this isn’t about me. This man expressed dismay about his wife suddenly neglecting her hygiene. Many people are struggling right now, and I believe it is important to pay close attention to our mental health.
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(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)
