SelfhelpMagazine

by Edward A. Dreyfus, Ph.D.

I can understand your concern for your brother and for your niece. Watching a family member in trouble is very difficult. It leaves you feeling helpless and lost.

Unfortunately, the only person that can do anything that may make a difference is your brother. If he is willing to accept his girlfriend's erratic behavior, then she has no reason to change. Unless he is willing to take action there is nothing that you can do.

I am concerned about the effects on the child. You might suggest to your brother he think about what impact his family situation is having on her.

If you believe that the child is in danger, you could call your local children's services agency. That would get both of the child's parent's attention. But it could also have dire consequences to your relationship with your brother.

There is a fine line between family concern and family meddling. You say that her brother has gotten involved. Perhaps you can speak with him also. Good luck.

About the Author:

Dr. Edward A. Dreyfus is a Clinical Psychologist, Marriage, Family, Child Therapist, and Sex Therapist. Dr. Dreyfus has been providing psychological services in the Los Angeles-Santa Monica area for over 30 years. He offers individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults, divorce mediation, couples counseling, group therapy, and career and vocational counseling and assessment. Dr. Dreyfus can be reached at: (310) 208-5700.