Husband wants university-bound teen to go to school out of town

Dear Abby: My husband and I are arguing about what college our son, “Wyatt,” should go to next year. I think it should be our son’s decision to choose the college with the degree program he wants. My husband disagrees. He wants our son to leave the nest, explore the world and become more independent. My husband says Wyatt is a “mama’s boy” and too reliant on me.

Wyatt wants to go to our local university, which offers the degree program he wants. He said: “I can go to the local school. You and Dad won’t have to pay room and board or outof-state tuition, and I can keep my job and help pay for groceries or help with tuition.”

For some reason, that statement means nothing to my husband. He wants Wyatt out of the house. Should I let my husband duke it out with our son because I have already stated my opinion more than once, or keep arguing that Wyatt should pick the college? This whole thing is stressing our son out because he wants to please his father, and I’m tired of my husband coming down on me for how I raised our son. — Challenged In New Mexico

Dear Challenged: I have to wonder if there is some other issue going on between your husband and your son that you didn’t mention. Wyatt appears to be thinking logically. He’s working and has offered to contribute to the household expenses. Many parents would be thrilled their son chose a school nearby. That your husband would label your son a “mama’s boy” and toss him out of the house is not helpful; it is hostile.

Criticizing you for the way Wyatt has been raised is a cheap shot.

Before making up your mind, talk to Wyatt’s guidance counselor at school.