Adult nieces and nephews cannot handle anyone who doesn’t agree

Dear Abby: I have several adult nieces and nephews whose dysfunctional upbringing makes them react in a very hostile and aggressive manner to anyone they perceive as disagreeing with them. They verbally abuse anyone they view as opposing them. They have so alienated their parent’s new spouse that they are no longer welcome in that parent’s home at any time, for any reason.

I would like to remain on semi-friendly terms with them, but I am unwilling to accept their verbal abuse. Is there any way this can be fixed?

— Distancing in Oklahoma

Dear Distancing: Unless your nieces and nephews are willing to accept that they have anger management issues that need addressing, this isn’t a problem that anyone other than a licensed professional can fix. If one of them unleashes a tirade on you, CALMLY point out that you prefer not to be abused and end the conversation by absenting yourself. Do it once, and I guarantee the word will spread.

Dear Abby: I’m at my wits’ end. I love my husband, but when we have company, he dominates the conversation, usually repeating the same stories over and over. If friends and family tell him they’ve heard the story before, he just ignores the remark and continues. He is retired, and I realize he doesn’t socialize enough. What can I do?

— Pain in Hosting

Dear Pain: That your husband is retired and isolated may contribute to his problem. As soon as it’s feasible, encourage him to get out of the house and involve himself in some new activities. However, if his repetitiveness is new behavior, this should be discussed with his doctor so he can be evaluated.