DEAR ABBY: I'm a 12-year-old girl who has a problem with my mom. Once a week we clean the house, which is fairly large. Even when I do a good job on every room my mom never says, "Nice job," "Good work," or even a simple "Thanks." It hurts my feelings because I thank her for all the things she does for me. Am I wrong to want or expect compliments in return? -- NEVER THANKED IN OREGON
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DEAR NEVER THANKED: No, you're not wrong. I don't know anyone of any age who doesn't crave positive reinforcement. Have you mentioned to your mother how this makes you feel? Because if you haven't, you're expressing your disappointment to the wrong person.