Query: My 15-year-old son has a very thick group of friends but I have seen how they all apply it all the time and strangely he is fine with it.
Every time I try to deal with it why he takes their nonsense, he tells me that they are friends and he will manage.
I don’t want my child to be a weak person! He must know how to stand up for himself! Please help.
Response by Dr.
Preeti Parakh: Well, my son stands for himself when he tells you not to interfere.
Most of the children were ridiculed by their friends at some point, and were not hurt by him.
But when tempting it becomes evil and constant, it becomes intimidation.
Children who are being intimidated are usually trying to avoid situations that bring them into contact with the bullies.
Sometimes there are changes in behavior such as being worried or upset.
Your son doesn’t seem to make an effort to avoid groups of these specific friends.
If these friends don’t make him upset, I don’t think he feels disturbed.
Instead of being weak, he seems strong enough and confident.
I am sure he will be able to defend his friends if necessary, just as he has stood up for you.
Dr.
Preeti Parakh, MD Psychiatry, Psychiatrists & Heads, Mpower The Center, Kolkataf You have a parenting query to share, send it to us at times.
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