DEAR ABBY: My younger brother is in junior high and he has autism. It is not severe. He's able to interact with others, but he's noticeably different from the other kids.
As he gets closer to entering high school, I am sure that if we don't tell him he has autism, someone at school will. I have mentioned this to my mother a couple of times, but she doesn't want to tell him. She's in denial and wants to ignore the situation like it's not even there.
Should I respect my mother's decision or push the subject more? -- GROUNDED IN REALITY
DEAR GROUNDED IN REALITY: Your brother probably already knows he is "different" -- and if he is high-functioning, I think he should know why, and it should be explained to him by one of your parents. However, whether your brother should be told is a decision -- at least for now -- that should be made by them.
Have you discussed your concerns with your father or any other adult relatives? If you haven't, I think you should, because they are valid.