ArcaMax

Q: Is it acceptable for parents to read our teenage daughter's journal, or go through her room, if we suspect she might be involved in some kind of unhealthy activity? And what if we do find evidence that something disturbing is occurring?

Jim: It's difficult to give a definitive response without knowing a lot more about you, your daughter, and...Read more

Q: As a first-time grandma, I'm excited to play an active and positive role in my grandchild's life. But I also want to be careful to respect appropriate boundaries with my son and daughter-in-law. Do you have any suggestions?

Jim: Congratulations! Grandparents can have a significant impact on the lives of your children and your grandchildren, ...Read more

Q: I'm a recent newlywed. Even in just a few short weeks, my husband and I are feeling overwhelmed. Life together isn't playing out the way we anticipated. Is this normal? We both really want to make this relationship work.

Jim: Yes, that's completely normal. No matter how strong your relationship with your new spouse, the lofty expectations ...Read more

Q: My mother has always been a sweet, caring and soft-spoken woman -- but she's developing Alzheimer's disease and becoming increasingly disagreeable and demanding. I know I'm supposed to honor my parent, and I really try. But what does "honor" mean in this situation?

Jim: My heart goes out to you. Caring for an aging loved one involves self-...Read more

Q: I'm the proud father of a beautiful 16-year-old daughter. However, I'm not the only one who's noticed how she has blossomed. She's getting more and more attention from boys her age, and I expect The Dating Question is right around the corner. How should I approach the issue of interacting with and vetting any potential boyfriends?

Jim: I "...Read more