Hi Brooke,

I’m new this month and I have a question about manuals. I understand how they are detrimental to adult relationships, but can you speak to the role they play in trying to raise children? My son, age 11, can be short with people, struggles with manners (e.g., greeting other adults, making eye contact, etc.), and generally doesn’t behave very lovingly to family. I have a manual for him that says he should work on these things, but I’m curious what your thoughts are on this issue.

Thank you so much!
Jennifer

P.S. Have you done a podcast on parenting issues or written about them somewhere? If so, please direct me to the right place.