Online Reporter
Tete Joyie:
I AM a mother in despair of what may happen to my son.
His partner is aloof, arrogant, controlling and malicious. He tells me he is “scared and lost”, and she is already threatening to keep his son from him.
I am shocked that my caring son settled for someone of this nature. I have tried to smooth things over, but all I get is hostility from her and her horrid family.
Tete Joyie Says:
I am really sorry you are going through this. It is heart-breaking to watch someone you love feel trapped and afraid, especially when you sense they are being mistreated. Your concern and love for your son are clear, and it is understandable that you feel despair when your efforts to help are met with hostility.
Here are a few thoughts that might help you navigate this painful situation:
Support your son without judgment
Let him know you are there for him unconditionally. He may already feel ashamed or confused, and judgment even unintended can make him retreat further.
Focus on listening. When he opens up, resist the urge to fix things immediately.
Just being heard can be a lifeline.
Encourage safe boundaries
If he is feeling “scared and lost,” he may need help recognising emotional abuse or manipulation. Gently suggest he speak to a counsellor or therapist someone neutral who can help him process what is happening.
If there is a threat to his relationship with his child, he may need legal advice. Encourage him to document interactions and seek guidance from a family lawyer or support organisation.
Protect your own peace
You are under immense emotional strain. Make space for your own healing whether through therapy, journalling, spiritual practice, or simply talking to someone you trust.
You can’t change his partner or her family, but you can choose how you respond. Sometimes stepping back is the most powerful move.
Remember: This is not your fault
You did not cause this, and you are not responsible for fixing it alone. Your son’s choices are his own, even if they are hard to understand.
What you can do is be a steady, loving presence someone he knows will be there when he is ready to take steps forward.
If you are looking for advice on the tricky situation that you find yourself in, WhatsApp 0716069196, and Tete Joyie will assist you in solving the problem. Remember, all those who write in remain anonymous
Habitual lying daughter stresses mom
Hie Tete Joyie:
I stay with my seven-year-old daughter, and she is very bright in school. My problem with her that she is in the habit of lying too much. Even if you try talking to her in a nice manner that lying is not good she still lies. What can I do to make this habit go away?
Tete Joyie Says:
You are clearly a loving and attentive parent, and it is wonderful that your daughter is thriving academically. Her habit of lying, though frustrating, is not uncommon at her age and it is something that can be gently guided with patience and consistency.
Here is a thoughtful approach to help her grow out of this habit:
Understand why she lies
Children often lie for reasons that are not malicious:
Avoiding punishment or disappointing you
Seeking attention or approval
Testing boundaries or exploring imagination
Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
Try to observe when and why she tends to lie. It can reveal what she is trying to protect or achieve.
create a safe space for truth
Praise honesty even when the truth is uncomfortable. Say things like, “I am proud you told me the truth. That is very brave.”
Avoid harsh reactions when she admits something wrong. If she fears punishment, she will lie to avoid it.
Use stories or role-play to show how honesty builds trust and lying can hurt relationships.
Build trust through routine
Set clear, consistent rules and expectations.
Let her know that mistakes are okay and part of learning.
Encourage open conversations where she feels heard and not judged.
Use gentle consequences
If she lies, calmly explain why it is hurtful or confusing.
Let her fix the situation if possible (eg, apologising, correcting the lie).
Avoid labelling her as a “liar” focus on the behaviour, not her identity.
Reinforce with stories and games
Read books or watch shows that highlight honesty and integrity.
Play games that reward truth-telling or involve solving mysteries together this channels her imagination positively.
If you are looking for advice on the tricky situation that you find yourself in, WhatsApp 0716069196, and Tete Joyie will assist you in solving the problem. Remember, all those who write in remain anonymous.
