The Catalyst

My mom and I don’t get along. We fight and yell all the time. I really want us to be close again like when I was younger. How do I tell her that?

I think all of us go through a stage when we don’t see eye to eye with our parents. Although, it can be more difficult when going from as close as you say you were, to not getting along at all. It’s rough, but try to stay positive throughout this stage. When you start to get irritated with your mom, just take a deep breath and brush it off. Also, switch up your approach. As soon as you see her, ask her how her day was instead of bickering with her. It will show you are interested in her life, which will make her happy, and it will start off your conversation on a positive note! Try to make an effort on your part to make your relationship better, and hopefully she will recognize you are trying, that way she can, too.

I am considering dating this girl, but she has a reputation that isn’t too good. I am a good kid. What should I tell her, and how should I approach our potential relationship?

Go for it! You never really know what’s going to happen. If you are still concerned, definitely talk to her about it. If she likes you as much as you like her, she will take your concern into consideration and clean up her act. Nothing should really be unsaid if you’re serious about starting a relationship with this girl. However, keep in mind that you went into this relationship knowing her reputation. Regardless, give it a try and see what happens! Oh, and good luck.

My best friend constantly degrades me in front of his other friends and it really makes me mad. How should I deal with this situation?

Being humiliated by a friend can be quite ego shattering. If he is making you feel uncomfortable and unwelcome in your group of friends, try to avoid putting yourself in those situations. If you find yourself being drawn into that certain group, tell your friend what’s up! Let him know that he isn’t acting cool. Don’t be too rude about your approach. Just be straight up with him. If you’re honest about it, he should change his attitude. Don’t go on without saying anything. If he doesn’t change his attitude, take a break from him until he realizes you are actually serious.