His ADD concerns call for tact

Dear Annie: My son-in-law might have attention-deficit disorder. He exhibits nervousness and impulsive behavior. While having a conversation, he is not really engaged but instead is formulating his next question, which is often totally off-topic. He makes out-of-the-blue, off-the-wall comments. Some of those comments are laced with inappropriate sexual innuendo. He has no hobbies because he loses interest too quickly.
Several years ago, my daughter was asked about the possibility that her husband had ADD, and she admitted he might, but nothing was done with that information. Given the recent television awareness campaign for adult ADD and the emergence of new drugs as a possible solution, it would appear there could be a way to improve the lives of my daughter and son-in-law. Can I tactfully suggest that my daughter revisit this issue, or should I just let it be? Caring Father
Dear Caring Father: That TV ad campaign is paid for by a pharmaceutical company, and it has its own agenda to promote. Your son-in-law may not have ADD, but if you feel you must do something, give your daughter the address of the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (www.add.org), P.O. Box 543, Pottstown, Pa. 19464, and tell her she might want to check it out.
Dear Annie: I soon will be 16 years old, and I have many close friends whom I e-mail almost every night, including one who lives in Texas and another in Hawaii.
I usually get on the computer and instant-message after finishing my homework, but lately, my dad has been coming into the room, saying he wants to send some e-mails. I know his e-mails are important, so I give him the computer, but afterward, he sits and plays solitaire for a really long time. I can't get back on the computer for hours.
I don't know what, exactly, to say to my dad. I know his e-mails take precedence, and there's nothing wrong with solitaire, but my friends are important to me, and I'm starting to miss them. What should I do? Alone, But Not Lonely
Dear Not Lonely: There's no reason Dad can't work out a schedule so you each get to use the computer.
Here's how to say it: "Dad, could you please set aside a specific time when I can use the computer every night? I promise when the time is up, I will get off immediately."
Dear Annie: I am 12 years old, and I have a problem with my pet hamster. She needs to have her nails clipped. Every time I hold her, she scratches me a lot. I would clip the nails myself, but I don't know how and I'm a little scared to do it. Would the veterinarian do it for me? If not, what should I do? Living in Germany
Dear Living in Germany: Your veterinarian would probably do it if you asked, and we think the first time, it would be best if the vet clipped your hamster's nails and taught you how. After that, you may be able to do it at home, with your parents' help.
Creators Syndicate
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