DEAR HARRIETTE: My husband and I have been fighting about how to raise our son since he was born. My husband is older, and he comes from a stricter upbringing. In my mind, he terrorizes my son by forcing him to study for hours, and even assigns him additional homework. My husband thinks I coddle and praise my son too much and that this behavior will turn him into a narcissist. This power struggle between us has clearly affected my son, and he has been expelled from school more than once. He is only 9 years old, and he has very few kids left who want to play with him. My son thinks he is the best at everything, and I appreciate his confidence; my husband thinks it's ridiculous that a child should feel so entitled to put other kids down. I know there are apprehensive whispers among my friends about how my son is going to be when he grows up. I want to compromise with my husband so that my little prince isn't being tormented by conflicting parents. What should I do? -- Crossfire, Baltimore
DEAR CROSSFIRE: Find a referee to discuss your parenting conflicts. Parenting or guidance counselors exist who can talk you through your strategies, assess your child's development and make recommendations based on facts, rather than emotions. Encourage your husband to attend meetings with such a professional so that you can get your son on track. Ignore the whispers of your friends for now. Focus on your child and the professional support you secure so that you can figure out your way forward.