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Dear Abby

Son is denied

father's love

Dear Abby:

I have three children from two previous marriages. My new husband is a wonderful provider and spouse, but by no means is he a father to my

son.

He gets along well with my two daughters, but he does not like my 8-year-old son. I can see. the hatred growing, and there's no way I can stop it.

When my son asks him a question, he says, "Shut up!" When the boy asks me why Dad is so mean to him and Dad hears him, he says, “Don't go running to your mother or you'll get a whipping!"

He won't show the boy any affection because he says showing affection to a boy will turn him înto a homosexual.

Abby, I am stuck. I've suggested counseling, but my husband says I'm the only one who's nuts, not him. I want us to be a happy family, but it's like butting my head against a stone wall. I've tried everything and gotten nowhere. Can you help me?

Dear Losing:

:

Losing the Way in Georgia

Anyone who believes that showing affection to a boy will turn him into a homosexual, and that counseling is only for "nuts," is woefully ignorant. If I were you, I'd go alone for counseling to learn how to handle this unreasonable man who gets along well with your two daughters but cruel to your son. You can bet it has something to do with his male ego and competition.

Y

.

He may be a good provider, but until he learns to be a loving, fair and patient father to your son, he's no bargain. Think about it.