DEAR ABBY: I have a friend whose husband tries to scare his 2-year-old child by jumping out of closets, from behind trees, etc.
I have seen the child tremble, cry and turn pale. The man thinks it is a "fun time" with his child.
What do you think of his behavior? He will see your answer. -– CONCERNED IN PHOENIX
DEAR CONCERNED: I hope you'll make sure he sees it. There is nothing "fun" about traumatizing a child. The father is sadistic, and he should consult with a psychotherapist to understand why he gets pleasure out of his child's pain, and to learn firsthand how damaging his "scare tactics" are.
If he refuses to stop, he should be reported to Children's Protective Services.