I don't like to see it either.

A friend of mine's husband died of brain cancer very suddenly a little over a year ago. Her 9 year old son is giving her a rough time. He does not cuss his mother out, but he ignores her when she tells him to do something and argues whenever he does not get his way. He is a big kid and his mother is very petite. I was over at their new house, helping to put up a fence and he sat on her lap and would not let her get up when she wanted to, for a few minutes, which seemed like forever. She tried arguing with him, which seemed to have no effect and threatened him with lame punishments. I did not know how to react. I think the proper response would have been a quick smack on the rear end, a time out and loss of a computer. I did nothing. I don't think he is a bad kid, yet. I worry about both of them.

He also beat up a kid at school who was teasing him for having no dad. I told my friend that I thought he was justified.

I want to help them, but feel awkward butting into what should be a private matter.

Keith