From: Anonymous
Subject: teen behavior
Question: My 16yr.old son that has had some self harmful behavior in the past. Now for the past 2 years he shaves his pubic hair and some of the hair on his chest and abdomen.
Says he doesn’t like the pubic hair.
Answer: Dear Mary:
There isn’t much information here as to what you mean by “harmful behavior in the past,” however shaving his pubic hair and his chest and abdomen may seem strange to you and yet it isn’t exactly harmful. Unless he is cutting himself in the process. I wouldn’t worry too much about it. Rather I would show an interest in his behavior. Ask him why he is doing so and then listen to his answer. Don’t react negatively to what he tells you just listen without judgement and allow him to talk about it. If you do this repeatedly I think he may even lose interest in the behavior or you may gain some insight into what is going on with him which will help your relationship. Think of it as an opportunity to open the lines of communication.
Sincerely,
M Kay Keller
