DEAR ABBY: Every Wednesday I go to a teen hip-hop class to dance and have fun. On one of those occasions, my friend "Tracy" came to class crying. My friends and I asked her what was wrong and she said her dad had hit her. We asked her why, and she said it was because she was on the phone too long. She showed us the bruises on her arms and legs. They looked very bad.
I told Tracy she could come home with me and she said, "No thanks. I'm fine." This week, she didn't make it to dance class. If she shows up with bruises again, should I make her come home with me and call the police? Please, Abby, I don't want Tracy to get hurt anymore. -- SAD AND CONFUSED IN SAN DIEGO
DEAR SAD AND CONFUSED: If it happens again, get the dance teacher involved. It is important that an adult document what is happening, and teachers are required by law to report abuse. You are a caring friend, and Tracy is lucky to have you. It is not unusual for an abuse victim to protect her (or his) abuser. The victim may be afraid that speaking out will cause the abuse to escalate. If Tracy does not return to class, a report can be made by calling ChildHelp U.S.A. The phone number is (800) 422-4453.