Here is the letter as it appeared in the Chicago Tribune … http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/chi-1006askamyoct06,1,7184794.column
Dear Amy: I have a son-in-law who is very rude and ugly with my daughter and grandsons. My daughter tells me that he is emotionally abusive to her and the kids. He not only has a short fuse with them but also with the rest of our family.
I have told him that we will not put up with his talking to our daughter and grandsons like this. He tells me it is none of my business how he raises his kids. I have told my daughter to go for help, but she does not know exactly what steps to take. She wants him to get help but does not know where to start.
I don’t like my daughter being talked to like this and especially my grandsons. I feel it is mentally damaging to them.
– Frustrated Mom
Dear Mom: If your grandsons are being belittled or verbally abused, of course it is damaging them. If they witness their mother being mistreated, this affects them deeply too.
I agree that this family needs professional intervention. You can help your daughter to get the help she needs by calling your local department of children and family services office. They provide services and assistance to at-risk families. The office could give your daughter a referral for a counselor who can speak to her about what’s going on at home.
You could also pass along the phone number for the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233). This 24-hour hotline is staffed with phone counselors who can answer any questions she might have and suggest local services.
