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Dr. M is the author of five advice books for tweens and teens. Her latest is Where Should I Sit at Lunch? The Ultimate 24/7 Guide to Surviving the High School Years. She enjoys dancing, reading, working out and talking with young people about the issues that concern them. She holds a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology.
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Liz, a first-year college student, is the co-author of three books: Ask Dr. M and Liz; Getting to Know the Real You: 50 Fun Quizzes Just for Girls, and Girls: What's So Bad About Being Good? She loves to dance, paint, make collages, hang out with friends and, of course, give advice.
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Dear Dr. M,
My friend's dad gets really drunk sometimes and hits her. She told me not to tell anyone, but I am worried about her. What should I do?
—Worried, 13
Dear Worried,
I'm glad you decided to tell me about your friend. Even though she asked you not to tell, this is a situation where being a true friend means ignoring her request and taking action. Please explain the circumstances to a trusted adult–a parent, a teacher, your guidance counselor, a school nurse or other school health professional (perhaps a psychologist or social worker), or your Girl Scout leader. That person can then notify the agency in your state (every state has one) that deals with reports of suspected child abuse. You can continue to support your friend while professionals deal with a potentially dangerous situation. Please write back to let me know what happens.
—Dr. M
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