Dear Abby: My significant other’s 8-year-old daughter is terrorizing me

An advice columnist responded to a woman who says her partner’s eight-year-old daughter’s behaviour and his responses have made her dread coming home. The reply says the partner should address the child’s tantrums and dependence, and recommends family therapy; the woman may need to reconsider the relationship if he refuses to act.

The woman has been with her partner for five years and says the girl behaves well when her father is absent, but demands his attention and erupts when denied what she wants. The columnist also answered a second letter, saying an elderly reader could give treasured serving pieces to her great-niece as a meaningful wedding or shower gift, with a note explaining their significance.