School officials or police need to step in
Dr. Wallace: I am having problems with a group of girls at school. We were once all friends, but I broke away from them because they were doing a lot of immature things such as writing hate letters and making obscene phone calls. When I left the group, they said they would "get" me one way or another.
First, they copied my handwriting and wrote a suicide note and signed my name and mailed it to our guidance counselor. That caused me a lot of time wasted and a lot of explanations. They harass me 24 hours a day. They constantly call on the phone and say nasty things to my family. We have changed our telephone number several times, but somehow they always get our new number.
Right this minute, these girls are walking up and down my street and yelling things at me when they pass my house. What can I do? — Nameless, Joliet, Ill.
Nameless: These unhappy girls are finding power in numbers, and are goading one another into ever more outrageous and cruel behavior. They've turned themselves into public nuisances, and their harassment clique must be broken up. Since you're one of their victims, you will have to take the lead.
Have your parents meet with your school counselor to discuss the problem and come to a quick solution. Most likely, the counselor will contact the parents of these girls. If the counselor can't stop them, go to the principal and, if necessary, the superintendent. I'm quite sure that school personnel can end this harassment; if not, the police can!
Dr. Wallace: My mom refuses to let me date until I'm 17 years old. I'm almost 17 now. I have my driver's license, but it does me no good because I can't drive unless she goes with me.
ROBERT WALLACE
I'm a very conscientious guy, but my mother thinks I'll get into trouble if I start dating. I like this certain girl and would love to ask her to a movie and a pizza. My dad says I can, but my mother says, "No way." Mom says she is doing what is best for me.
As you can see, my mom is the boss in our family. Do you agree with her? - Ken, Birmingham, Ala.
Ken: I agree with your dad. Too bad he doesn't have a 50-50 say in family matters. Mom needs to untie the apron strings and allow you to mature socially and enjoy your teen years.
See if your school counselor or a friendly teacher can intercede for you. Keep trying! Make sure your mom reads my answer to your concern.
Dr. Wallace: Several weeks ago, you discussed the eating disorder bulimia in your column. I am now convinced that I'm bulimic. I stuff myself and then make myself throw up to get rid of all the food. I do this because when I stuff myself I feel guilty. I now realize that I need help.
Where do I turn for help? I'm 16 and live at home with my mom and we don't have a lot of money. — Cindy, Syracuse, N.Y.
Cindy: Bulimia is a serious eating disorder. It's important for you to get professional assistance. Talk with your family doctor and a school counselor and ask if they know of a lowcost or free group therapy agency in the Syracuse area. Also, most insurance companies recognize eating disorders as an insurable illness and will pay for all or part of the expenses. Check it out! And don't give up until you get the help you really need to overcome this eating disorder.