Orlean Brown-Earle | Help! My son loves guns

Q: My 12-year-old son is totally engrossed in gun culture. We left the ghetto five years ago, but at 14, he is still fascinated by guns. Will he change?

A: Your son has been exposed to a part of life that boys find exciting. You will have to guide him into other positive things so that he will see the benefits of positive associations. Guide him to join a club at school that will help him to maximise his potential.

Q: I am concerned for the boys at my son's school who cannot read. The grade-two teacher is so sad. She has tried everything. What can happen now?

A: The boys may need to be tested to see if they have any learning disabilities. Speak with the principal and guidance counsellor about getting this done.

Q: I am concerned about the GSAT results. My child is nervous and depressed. She will not go to school until the results are out. Help me.

A: Let your daughter know that you love her regardless of the results. Be kind and firm when you speak with her. Remember, how you deal with this may determine how she copes with other issues in the future.

- Orlean Brown-Earle, PhD, is a child psychologist and family therapist. Dr Brown-Earle works with children with learning and behavioural problems throughout the island and in the Caribbean. Email questions to editor@gleanerjm.com or send to 'Ask the Doc', c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston. Responses to concerns are to be considered as general, as cases shared with psychologists privately would be queried more deeply. Pray always!