Dear Abby: Should I keep hounding my daughter or wait for her to call?

Greetings, Abby

Regarding contacting my daughter, I need some guidance. She’s twenty-two and leads a hectic life. I can appreciate how difficult it is for her to manage all of her daily obligations, but she refuses to answer my calls or texts. My divorce five years ago left us with a sour past, but we have worked things out to the point where I believe we are healing old scars.

It seems as though nothing has harmed our connection whenever we are together. I need to know if I should be more persistent or just wait for her to get in touch with me, even though I know she’s young. A PARENT IN WASHINGTON WAITING

TO MY PARENT:

Although you didn’t say how persistent you have been, nagging your daughter for more contact won’t make you closer to her. She can be self-centered, busy, or distracted. You might have a higher chance of receiving a response if you text or contact her once a month.

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Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or send an email to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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What Every Teen Should Know covers topics such as AIDS, drugs, sex, and how to get along with parents and peers. Please send your name, postal address, and $8 (in US dollars) by check or money order to Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (The price includes shipping and handling.)

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