His self-esteem probably needs a boost
Dr. Wallace: I’ve been dating a boy for about two months and I care for him very much. But lately he’s really been bugging me. We’re in the drama club at school and both of us are considered lead actors.
The problem is that he is very flirty and outgoing and I am rather reserved. Often during rehearsals he will hug and kiss other female cast members on the cheek. Many times other girls have told me about his “touchy, aggressive behavior,” especially if I’m not around.
When I question him about his flirty behavior he just says that it’s part of his personality. Why does he act this way, and what can I do to get him to save all his kisses for me? — Nameless, Cleveland, Ohio.
Nameless: The boy flirts because his self-esteem is low. When a lot of females think he’s desirable, he feels important. But remember, he’s not dating the girls he kisses on the cheek. He’s dating you. As long as his flirty behavior is innocent and harmless, don’t allow his behavior to end a relationship you enjoy very much.
Dr. Wallace: My boyfriend and I have been dating for two months. I now have a job after school, so he can’t walk me home like he used to. Just recently he told me that he met a girl new to our school and now he’s walking her home. He said that he told her about us and she is just a friend. At first it didn’t bother me, but now I’m starting to worry that she will steal him away from me.
ROBERT WALLACE
What should I do? I can’t do my job properly thinking about this, even though he tells me that he still wants me to be his girlfriend. — T.R. Miami, Fla.
T.R.: If he tells you he is continuing to walk this girl home, tell him that you really aren’t interested in hearing about it. Tell him that you trust him so there is nothing for you to be concerned about. I think this boy likes you and is a bit upset that he can no longer walk you home, so he is trying to make you a little jealous.
Don’t fall for it! If you told him you were breaking up with him, he’d whimper like a puppy. If you don’t believe me, give it a try!
Dr. Wallace: I think it’s possible that I might have a sexually transmitted disease. Is it possible that if I’m infected it will eventually go away without medical assistance? — Worried, Oakland
Worried: No sexually transmitted disease will “go away in time” without medical treatment. Treatment often involves taking specific antibiotics to destroy the organisms causing the disease. It is imperative that you get tested by a medical doctor immediately!