This interpretation of the facts is only one explanation. Lots of children don't talk to a new partner or step-parent because of genuine communication difficulties going back to early childhood, rather than a deliberate refusal to speak. If this lad has always found it easier to speak to immediate family rather than teachers etc., then please Google the Smira website for information on selective mutism.
Yes, this problem will carry on for years if the issue is not talked about. The father is afraid of aleinating the son/daughter so they want to be friends and not bring up any type of conflict causing conversations. When the original couple split up and each acheives harmony the step parent is not the object discord. An unhappy ex-spouse will use the child as an instrument to torment the "replacement." If the ex wife/husband is happy in their new arrangment they look forward not back.
This interpretation of the facts is only one explanation. Lots of children don't talk to a new partner or step-parent because of genuine communication difficulties going back to early childhood, rather than a deliberate refusal to speak. If this lad has always found it easier to speak to immediate family rather than teachers etc., then please Google the Smira website for information on selective mutism.
Maggie Johnson, Speech and Language Therapist
ChildX100 1 year ago
Comment removed
ChildX100 1 year ago
Yes, this problem will carry on for years if the issue is not talked about. The father is afraid of aleinating the son/daughter so they want to be friends and not bring up any type of conflict causing conversations. When the original couple split up and each acheives harmony the step parent is not the object discord. An unhappy ex-spouse will use the child as an instrument to torment the "replacement." If the ex wife/husband is happy in their new arrangment they look forward not back.
likethecats 3 years ago