From a Teen:

“They said I was gay.”

Hey Terra,

You might not remember me, but you once gave a workshop at my school and I was wondering if you could help me. All the girls at my school can be real jerks. They tease me and call me names. Once two girls and one guy really crossed the line and said I was gay, which most people know is not true. How can I ever get to know any of the girls I sorta like if the others girls tease me and spread lies?

Desperate

From a Parent:

“I think I've made my daughter into one of those mean girls.”

Dear Annie,

Having just read your "Mean Girls" article, I had to write. At times my 13-year-old daughter is one of those mean girls. She's in the in-group and is invited to everything. She also can be critical of others. I blame my husband and myself. I spent 30 minutes at a party last night trying not to criticize other guests. "Look what he's wearing." "She is SO annoying." I sound just like a mean girl.

I am trying to be a better role model, but I fear the damage is done. At this point we are trying for, "You don't have to spend time with everyone, but you may not be mean and critical." I have come to see my parents and siblings as very critical as well. When my mother feels any discomfort, she finds fault with the person involved. I also feel that the school has done everyone a disservice by identifying her group as "the popular girls," and then telling them how they should perform in that role. What suggestions would you make for mean girls parents and teachers.

Thanks,

Corrine