I loved the most recent show featuring Aric, it warmed my hear to see the progress that he made. Aric's story really touched me because he reminded me so much of a dear friend that I lost to suicide a little over 2 years ago, he was 15years old. I'm glad that Aric got the help & the 2nd chance at life that my friend didn't. I look forward to future updates on him.

THIS BOY JUST WANTS ATTENTION . HE WILL GROW OUT OF IT .

Dear Dr. Keith Ablow, my heart went out for Eric the moment i saw him on your show the first time. When I saw him again on your show I was happy that he is doing better. My name is Karena. I am from Ohio and I am 21 years old. The reason why my heart goes out to Eric is because I was in the same situation that he was in. There was always tention between me and my parents when I was young. I felt that they did not undertand me. I see so much in Eric. I see beyond what was on the show both times they were aired. I wanted to reach through the tv and just hug him because I felt his pain. I pray that he stays on the right path and that he will find more happiness. Please tell him that there are other people that do go through the same thing.
Karena

ERIC - READ MESSAGES IN THIS BLOG!!!! I wanted to post a comment yesterday before the show even ended- just to reach out to you somehow- geez I love the internet! First - the day will come that you(we all) realize our parents are only human with their own failures and limitations. They only do they best they know how to do - no matter how limited that may be. One day you will accept them as the imperfect beings they are. second - WOW your hot! and I understand your comments on how the worlds reveres the physical, outside and superficial appearances in people. Understand this: Its so obvious to millions who watched the show that you are beautiful on the inside - pained and beautiful. someone injured that beautiful artistic soul- but they cant take it away from you completely. You make me think of Marianne Williamsons' comments in her take on the course in miracles- Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure." Do not fear your own genius- we see it in you , as Dr Keith said - how you put words to your feelings- your words are from an old soul- not a young boy... You have the power to overcome what others have done to you, and make your life the miracle it is meant to be. I look forward to seeing your art out in the public eye one day. Peace and blessings from Connecticut.

Dear Dr. Ablow, You have shown how effective therapy is in changing people's lives, with Aric as a primary example. If he can continue to find the courage and hope within himself, supported by the educated others in his life, he is really going to enjoy his future. I learned that the more intense and provocative the makeup and behavior, the more vulnerable the person is, I used to think it was aggression without cause and was stumped by it. Aric had to protect himself(the makeup)and find relief (killing the birds)in order to survive (his stepfather is really coming up to the plate!). It pained me to see his body language. Now that he knows that he is supported and appreciated (that kid is smart) he doesn't have to scare people away, hurt himself or hurt other vulnerable beings. He doesn't need such intensive relief and protection. He is not totally healed I understand, but he is surely on his way. A transformation like this one, Aric and the stepfather, make me feel that there is a God and there are opportunities for us to grow if we are searching to heal. Aric and the stepfather had to want this. This is an amazing and inspirational story. You are one courageous, solid, well educated and intentioned psychiatrist!!!
Thanks for your show! Injai

Dear Dr. Keith,
As an educator and mother for nearly 20 years, I have seen my share of troubled teenagers. Aric, I predict that you are going to be a beacon of light to many in this journey in which you have now embarked. You spoke with such articulation and wisdom of one so far beyond your age in years. As a Christian I want you to know that I am praying for you and your family. I truly believe that God is preparing you for something beyond your imagination-remember people make trash, God makes treasures and He made you. As a mother of a 16 year old son myself, I feel your pain. I see so much gain in you since your first appearance. I know you have a long way to go, but the path you will travel will be traveled by many. May God bless you (and use you to help others). You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Tressa

Dr.Keith -

It's gratifying to know that there are health care professionals out there who know how to unearth the gem as evidenced in the maturity and depth of character that came through Aric after your gentle and aware work with him. For the severely sensitive, it can take a great deal of onion - peeling to find the center. I can't tell you how proud I am of both of you. And I hope Aric can maitain and increase this level of self-esteem that he has started to find. It is so good to see health profesionals be able to solve problems instead of making them worse. You are very sensitive and I wish the best for Aric who is an amazing person.

Dear Dr. Keith,

I watched both shows regarding 14-yr old Aric and his family. My heart ached for him the first time I saw him and I wish I could have been there to show my support. One of the things he needed most was to have someone really "hear" him.

Thank you for the kind and gentle way you were able to peel back the layers and reveal the real Aric finally getting his message heard.

I was so touched by this bright, articulate and handsome young man and my wish is that his future will be a happy and healthy one. I'm so pleased with the progress he's making too. Were it not for his appearance on your show, I don't believe he would have gotten the attention he so deserved.

Thank you Dr. Keith for continuing to stay in touch with Aric. I look forward to updates on him on future shows. Keep up the good work.

Louise

i feel sorry for Eric, i'm about his age. i hope that they will make it thourgh this alright. all and all Eric sounds like a really cool kid, he only needs he's family around and some help, but he'll make it i'm sure. as long as he can see the good around him. he seems smart also, he's got a lot of good things about him i'm sure he just has to realize them.
Good Luck and never give up. Best of Luck to him and he's family.

Dear Dr. Keith,
i was so struck by the comments of Kenny on your show airing on Feb. 5th 2007."Dark World of Angry Teens."
This is the first email i have ever written a talk show...

Please consider reading my comments to Kenny during your I chat with him.

Dear Kenny,
I was so saddened to hear you did not think you were 'beautiful' enough to be in this world.

When i saw how you looked without the dark hair and heavy black eyeliner, i jumped off the couch explaiming 'He is 'beautiful'! Kenny your natural hair color off sets your skin tone making you look healthy and real and approchable. Your eyes are a beautiful sparkling blue. And, most importantly your eyes reflect a sensitivity and intelligence that no make over can give a person. You are a beautiful person Kenny. Please know that people who have suffered pain and hurtful experiences espespecially in childhood and come out the other side have more compassion and caring for others. You have alot to give the world in the future. Please know that you are a beatiful person.

I have been a professional makeup and hair person working on TV, videos, infocomercials, and print media. I have the qualifications to note a beautiful person when i see one.
My best to you in your future.
Suzanne

I am glad that you have kept up with Aric and his family. I watched the first show and was immeadiately drawn to this young man. i would like you to keep in touch with him and see his progress. I am Gothic myself, and it's nice to see that not all GOTHs are into some of the darker things people accuse us of.

I watched the show today. And it opened my eyes up to alot. Eric is a very attractive young man. And I've been in his shoes too. I jumped into two marriages for the wrong reasons. And I'm slowly but finally getting back on track. Keep up the great job and great shows.

I was surprised when I heard Aric say he wasn't 'beautiful'. I think he is a very good-looking kid. Beautiful eyes. Just handsome. More than that...though I didn't see the first show...he seems beautiful on the inside too. I would imagine he is a very interesting person. And, quite frankly, a nice kid.

Regarding Candice...her mother was so accusational. So hard to listen too - seemed to play the victim. I felt Candice was more mature than her mother. She could just accept NO part in any of the problems. It was so evident she was seeking pity when she just appeared weak. Candice wasn't given a chance to speak and was having a finger pointed at her constantly. It was frustrating to watch.

I think these are two good kids. That's my view.

Beth

I've never commented on any show before and I didn't see the first show with Eric and his family. This young man made such an impression on me. How bright and articulate he was, and no doubt artistic. His beautiful spirit shone through and I'm sure he has touched so many people by allowing himself to move past his pain. Thanks to Dr. Ablow for guiding him through this.

I'd be very curious to see Aric's artwork. I've been looking around on the internet to see if I can find it with just the information we have but I cant. I found when I was younger, that it was very helpful to have adults appreciate my art. I took a papermaking class that was designed for adults when I was 12 and it was a great thing. I'd be willing to bet that his art is very interesting considering his world view.

I just want Aric to know that he is a handsome young man and that he doesn't have any reason to cover his face. He also has a kind heart and I am deeply sorry that he was hurt. You are great Aric, Please believe that.

RENEE

I would just like to say this is the first time I have watched your show and today when I saw Aric's stepfather and the emotion that he showed. It really told me how much he loves Aric's mother and truly cares about each of them. I think that he deserves to be recognized. Sometimes you can't even get that much emotion and caring from your own real parents.

Aric!
You are such an inspiration to me. Though I have already been through a stage when I was bit younger in which I was very withdrawn and wore dark clothing, I still feel that my walls are up like yours. I stopped dressing like that three years ago but I still very different from others. To see someone else get through a similar problem is really an inspiration. Keep on going... you're an amazing person.

I think this mother is the problem. i grew up with my mother having the postpadem during the pregnency. she told my dad when i was born(born,just alive) that i was an eveil child. she hated me and beat me all my life. she drank too. i was told it was all my fault and i would never amount to anything and no one would want me. i feel for this girl, if she has any problems its because of her mother.
well i amounted to something and i found someone. ive been married since i was 19 and we are going on 17 years. i have 4 great kids, my oldest finished high school early and he is leaving for boot camp soon. i say to this girl hang in their and take the help from Dr. Ablow. It will get better.

how interesting how the teenager on todays show(candace) turned the tables to make it look like the mother was a drunk and beating her child. NO its not like that we are driven to escape the abuse that the child has inflicted, for instance a child who breaks down doors and beats up his brothers. tell me what a single mother is supposed to do, especially since the police don't do anything, its hard to come home to a child that greets you with hatred and not want to have 1 drink at the end of the night. having one drink does NOT make you an alcholic, but that girl is using that to twist the story.

I was watching the show today.I personally i get angry that parents always want to look righteous imfont of other people,but at home they create this hostile environment.I mean look at that girl,does she looks like someone that would be mean for no reason??I mean the mom doesnt like her girfriend,but she doesnt realize her girlfriend comforts her more that the mom.i mean listening to that lady ,is like listening my mother.And now my mom realizes that she was wrong,but the damaged is done anyway.parents should be careful and if there is a problem at home,not to deny their mistakes.

Dr. Keith,
Hi my name is Cassandra im 17....I watch ur show almost everyday with my mom....The episode that i was most interested in was the one bout Aric....He taught me that things happen for a reason weather there good or bad and only u can change them....in that epsiode his parents made me so angry by the way they treating him...Being mean to there son was not going to help him get through anything....NO child should ever have to go through that....Thats crazy....Instead of insalting him all the time they should have been there for him even if he hated them at the time....I think that Aric is a Wonderful boy and very cute and smart....I hope everything gets better for him...I would love to get to know him better and become friends with him....He is absolutly Wonderful....Well I guess that is it....bye bye

Aric (I hope you read this), I saw the show today and was so impressed with you. Keep up the good work, I believe you are a great kid and will become a great man. You are intelligent, articulate and so willing to work on life's issues. I wish you all the best.

Sarah
Puerto Rico

I was so pleased watching todays follow-up show on Aric. I felt almost a motherly sence of pride to see how far hes come. I had similar problems with both my appearence and my parents. As I got older its improved greatly. It took me some time to "find myself" and I was so happy to see that hes also focusing on the good things about himself.
Life isnt about your hair, your makeup, or your clothes. Its all about whats inside. Even as an adult, married with a child, Im still the same good, artistic person inside.
I hope Aric sees this and knows, it can only get so much better from here. Dont let anyone influence how you feel about yourself.

Dear Dr Keith

I'm worried about my daughter she is 21 and she is mad at the whole world she seems that the world owes her something and she has stoped believeing in god and i'm scared for her she is into this blood and gothic stuff she yells at me and her father and tells us all the time she wants she isnt human she is a vampire she wears these pentagrams all the time she wears all black i'm scared she is gonna hurt herself or us please help me dr keith she has went down since i lost my mother she has changed she used to be a loving child but now she is a tottally new person please help me dr keith i'm so scared for her and me and my boyfriend

I really liked todays' show.I was wondering about Candance though... I realize that she is having trouble w/ her Mom,however it seems to me that there have been some sort of abuse (sexual?) at some point that may be causing the sexually acting out and the rage... just a thought but not impossible.

I mean when she kept talking about not feeling like a person or a human, she seemed like she was just trying to say that felt disconnected from her mom,but perhaps from herself too.

Perhaps it is a combination of things,her moms' drinking and other issues...

Best of luck to her!

Aric, I have been following your story, and I am very proud of the strides you have made. I am the mother of a 17 year old girl. We have a wonderful relationship and I hope that for every teen. I know that is only something that would happen in the perfect world. But I think you could make that happen with your parents. Don't stop with your progress, continue to talk to those that will listen and continue with your art. I am not a doctor but I do know that it is not healthy to keep your feelings bottled up. Life is a learning experience, no one is perfect, keep learning and growing. God Bless You!!

Hey Dr. Keith. My name is Linda and I'm 14 years old. I was just watching your show and when I heard about how Arik used to have such low self esteem, it bothered me. When he was explaining how he used to feel about himself, it shocked me. From what I can see, he is a great person, and he seems like someone I would definitely be friends with in real life, with or without the eyeliner. I seriously mean that. He seems to be better now, but if possible, I think he should know that someone thinks he's "beautiful".

Dr. Keith,
I was very angry when watching this show. Mostly when the mother said that her daughter is not able to be a lesbian because the mother wants "a normal life for her daughter, she wants her daughter to get married and have kids". I feel that as a parent you have no right in saying what sexual preferance there child decides. Another thing that made me angry was the mother blamming her 14 year old daughter for her drinking and her problems. She is the parental figure in this family she needs to take control. Also where is the father in this whole situation? Why is he not trying to help?
A child no matter the age should never be blammed for there parents problems in there lives.
Again I love your show, and I watch it everyday.
Thanx for taken the time to read this.

I'm glad to see that this young boy came out of his shell.I'm also glad that his step-dad is showing an effort.I pray for this family.As for Candice's mother,she could do a little more listening instead of talking.

Aric you are such a beautiful person inside and out with an incredible Spirit.

Bless you for sharing your story. In doing so you are making a big difference for the better in/for your health/life and the health/lives of others.
and afterall,
Life is all about Love.

Blesings to you and your family.

Jesus Rocks !

please checkout :steelroots
it's on the internet and tv/music show, it's really cool.

Keeping you and your family in Prayer.

and ask for Prayer for our family.
Our mother,"Mommy" is deathly ill from Silicone Associated Diseases, from breast implants (she used to have).

In Jesus,love,a friend

I can't tell you how much I love your show and really appreciate you. Your demeanor can reach people who share the same issues as the people on your show. You don't judge, which is wonderful. I watched your show today about teenagers and want to reference the first girl and her mother. I thought you were a little "soft" on the 13 year old. I know her mother's drinking problem plays into the situation but the young girl was not attending school, if I heard correctly. I"m so glad they are both getting follow up treatment.
I think your show should be manadatory watching! haha.
Love ya in Montana
Joyce

IM ALSO A 14 YEAR OLD GIRL.I LIVED THROUGH ALOT.
IN MY OLD SCHOOL I WOULD GET PICKED ON .PEOPLE WOULD BE SAYING RUMORS.PEOPLE WOULD ASK ME IF I DID SEXUAL THINGS.ALOT OF PEOPLE HATED ME FOR NO REASON .ALOT OF PEOPLE WANTED TO PICK FIGHTS WITH ME.BUT I ALWAYS HAD A WEAPON AND EVERYONE KNEW SO THEY KINDA BACKED UP .SCHOOL WAS A TERRIBLE PLACE.TEACHERS MAY CALL IT A SECOND HOME ITS NOT.I GOT SUSPENED SO MUCH,I DITCHED EVERYDAY,I WALKED OUT OF CLASSES,SCREAMED AT TEACHER,AND I ALMOST GOT SENT TO JUVI .
AT HOME ITS NOT ANYTHING DIFFERENT.
MY PARENTS TREAT ME BAD.MY BROTHER BEATS ME UP .AND JUST RIGHT NOW MY BROTHER SAID I WAS A "STUPID AND RETARDED F**KER.
I HAVE DRINKIN PROBLEMS AND MY PARENTS TREATEN ME TO TAKE ME TO REHAB AND STUFF I STILL DONT LISTEN .I HAVE NEVER GOTTEN LOVE FROM THEM OR ANYONE ELSE.I FEEL DEAD TOO .BUT THEN I DONT WANNA GIVE UP IM STILL LOOKIN FOR ATENTION .SOME YEARS
AGO MY PARENTS TOLD ME I WAS A MISTAKE I WAS NEVER MENT TO BE BORN
AND SINCE THEN I TURNED INTO A EMO/ROCKER
I CUTT...SINCE THAT SEEMS TO TAKE THE PAIN AWAY .
AND NOW I DONT LISTEN TO MY PARENTS AT ALL .I GO OUT EVERYDAY AND COME HOME AT 10 PM .I DONT CARE WHAT THEY SAY .

I just recently saw Aric when he came on the show for the second time and I have to say that he looks wonderful without the make up. He has a wonderful figure and beautiful eyes. And they were shining when he came on the show. He had more self confidence and I think that is the most attractive characteristic. I have to say to Aric that you have made wonderful improvements and that you are a great person and you need to let that shine through and not hide behind your insecurities with anger and make up.

Dr. Keith I saw your show for the very first time today and man did it hit home. It was the story about Aric. I am the mother of a young man just like him in alot of ways. He (my son is 20 now)but it all started at a very young age. I know without a doubt that during his teenage years that I just made things worse for him, I was embarresed by the way he looked and acted.I just could not accept who he was. gothic, black makeup, pink fishnet hose etc. etc. and a very unhappy heart. After many many fights, tears, sleepless nights and with the help of a wonderful wonderful counseler I realized the problem was not with my son but with me. Who was I, to not accept who he is, and the bottom line was that he was my son and I loved him dearly. So at that point I started accecpting who he was and trust me acceptance sometimes is a very hard thing to swallow. But I noticed that when I started accepting his heart became happier and we started laughing and communicating and loving. Now my son has pink hair peircings everywhere, tattoos and 1 inch streched earlobes and he gets stared at alot. Embarresment to be seen with my son is no longer an issue. When we go out to dinner and people stare I put my head up and puff out my chest because I am proud of him and of who he is, he brings beauty to my world and I would not have him any other way. I still dont like the ears and I tell him that on a regular basis but its not made and issue because, that is who he is So for Arics parents bottom line you love him I could tell even though mom wasnt there who cares what everyone else thinks you have a very beautiful son and try accepting who he is and things really does start getting easier and you too will see your sons happy heart start to emerge and yours will feel lighter. I promise you have a fine young man you should be proud. Aric I think your awsome.

Watching the young man Aric. I just want him to know, he is truly a very handsome young man. For 15, his thoughts are much more on track than he has given himself credit for,especially in the area of his trying. I do believe as parents we are not perfect, and I see a WHOLE lot of problems with his mothers warped area that religious beliefs have to be his in order for him to be a normal person. How wrong she is. Aric your on the right track buddy,keep working with your FAMILY. You all deserve it, and you have to learn they do love you, but are just afraid of what they have seen. You at 15 owe them responsibility and accountability, allow that to happen and you will have a relationship you can all survive. Good luck!

Thank you for your compassion and help with Aric. My heart goes out to that kid. How easy is it is for all of us to feel disconnected. Everyone has a different story but we all experience the same emotions. Please give Aric my best wishes and encouragement. Tell him I think he is beatiful.

I am appalled at how Candace's mother says drinking is 'how she copes.'
Doesn't she see that her daughter is mimicking her behavior? When the daughter says she hits and that is how she deals with things, that "that's just what I do," it's a direct reaction to her mom making excuses for herself. That is sick.

I was a troubled teenager and was violent and quiet and hung out with people that were 'weird,' but it was an escape...a bad one, but an escape from the tortured home life of parents who couldn't understand my pain.

I understand now that there came a time to rise above my parents bad influence and problems and be thankful for the things they DID do great--like provide for me, love me, and let me be me...even if they didn't understand. I moved forward.

I hope that Candace's mom can come to grips with her problems and stop blaming her daughter. I mean, SHE'S the MOM!

My two favorite parts of the show today:

1. The comment Dr. Keith made to Candace's Mom about leaving not being the answer....being more present is....as in stop numbing herself with the alcohol.

2. The genuine hug that Aric received from Dr. Keith.

Nice to see that mask off Aric. Those beautiful eyes show a lot of depth, intelligence, and creativity that's going to make some lucky girl melt one day. Good luck to you!

Kess

I get so frustrated with parents today! First of all, Jamie isn't even listening to her daughter. Second, Jamie has a lot of things she needs to work on before she'll ever be able to help her child. She's blaming her daughter for everything she does. Jamie!!! Seriously, snap out of it! The world does not revolve around! You are an adult...I don't know if you realize what that means...YOU ARE AN ADULT! Take responsibility for your own actions. You obviously have a drinking problem and then blame your own child for it? You have no right being a mother. Until you can step forward and change yourself, your children will never change either. Do parents see the effect they have on their children? Your children look up to you (no matter what they tell you) and they watch you so much more closely than you think they do. I am now 23 and have realized more and more how much my parents have impacted me. In ways that they don't even realize they have impacted me. Both positive and negative. Of course, as each day goes by I find out more of the negatives and why I act and think the way that I do. Parents: If there is one thing I can tell you it would be this --> You impact your children more than you will ever realize. Things that you do on a regular basis...things that you don't even think about...the way you live, the way you act, the way you talk...every single thing you do impacts them. You won't see the impact right away, you may never see it...but they will. It could be the tiniest aspect of their character, but if you are a parent, you are molding that child into the adult they will be one day. Be careful. A child's heart (and teenager's) is a very sensitive thing. Watch what you do...watch what you say. You have an impact on them. I wish parents understood this.

This is for Aric the troubled teen. He said he didn't think he was beautiful. I disagree, he is absolutely beautiful inside and out.He is going to be sooo handsome and have all the girls after him. I am a 58 year old mother of 2 grown children. I see a gentleness in him and I think he will be just fine.

Dr. Ablow,
I just had to write and say how great it was for you to keep in touch with Aric. I watched the first show with his stepdad and mom, and felt bad for them all. If you could pass a message to Aric, I would sooo appreciate it. I heard him say how he had no beauty, and thats why he used the make up. Well Aric, I for one think you are a handsome young man, and thank God you got rid of the make up..you really shine through. I applaud you so much. In the first show you couldn't even hold your head up, and here I am watching u today head held high. I don't even know you, and yet I felt so proud for you. And the insight you had on your mom not being there, not letting others opinion get to you, was great. Keep up the great work, and keep moving forward. God be with you and your family.

These people.. .on this show "I'm afraid of my teenager"... Candace and.. I think his name was Eric? The fellow with the cool long hair (in which I wish I could have)... They are the kind of people that make me want to become a social worker or an elementary school teacher, someone that can help people... good people like them... so that they don't end up in hurt and sadness. I respect both of them, and if there is ANYWAY I could get in contact with any of them in anyway, I would truly appreciate it. Eric just seems (yet, I don't really know) that he is extremely artistic, and I'd liked to discuss some of it. And I would like to know if anything has gotten better for the girl, she seemed so sweet and nice, just... I don't know.

I feel so much for Aric. The two shows that he has been are by far your best, Dr. Keith.

Obviously, Aric has a lot of challenges to face and a lot of emotional issues to face, but deep down you can tell he's such a sweet kid. I wish him all the best.

Aric: When I was your age (and older) I was a goth, too. You looked great on the follow-up show...but just because you're facing your demons doesn't mean you have to push aside who you really are. Be goth if you want to be goth! You looked great! You look great now, too...you're a good looking kid any way you slice it...but don't lose sight of yourself and your style - you can still change the inside and look cool on the outside :)

I am a 15 year old that watched the show. I noticed that you and Aric's mother said something about Aric having a myspace. Well it took me about one day to find his. I talk to him everyday on instant messenger and myspace. He has changed a little but not totally. Aric is a truely wonderful guy. I believe that his parents didnt except the way he expressed himself. By express i mean by the way he dresses and what genre he listens to. I just hope his mother and step dad will soon under stand why he does what he does. Thanks.
Amber R.

I'm 29 and used to be a supposed "out control teenager". I now know that it was not my fault that my parents chose to raise me in a chaotic, unstable, emotionally abusive and neglectful environment. When I became a teenager I literally snapped because by that point I had completely lost all respect for my parents and I was angry for the way they treated me when I was young. It's the parents problem. My parents (57) still talk to eachother like petty little children which is hurtful and emotionally draining to the people around them. The "troubled" teenager is just the scapegoat to the parents selfishness and lack of awareness.

I watched the show about Aric last week, and I'm still thinking about him. I was amazed at the horrible communications skills of his parents. They never actually answered any question Dr. Keith asked. All they did was talk at the same time about something other than the answer to the question. It's so easy to make anyone feel listened-to and important. You just have to stop talking for a moment, and then say, yes, I understand, or that's a great idea, or wow, that's really good! You did a good job! Not everything is about "you". The high school kids at my church led a worship service, and their closing words were from Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. I think they sum up how to act: "Be Excellent to Each Other."

I have never been so moved by anything I've seen on televison. I am a woman, 3 months shy of 50 years old and as I watched Eric I saw the perfect reflection of myself. I had a chilling epiphany. I too was verbally, emotionally and physically abused beginning at a very young age. I was smoking pot by the time I was 11 and the drug abuse and self destruction spun out of control from there. Eric, be grateful you have people around you who did something to get you help now. I have realized that I shut down emotionally at 14 and am still there today. I just now realized that all these years love has always meant a painful and abusive experience in that every time I was beaten or verbally abused it was in the name of love.... resulting in walls up and thickening for 45 years. I don't want to be loved because that meant I would be hurt and abused and conversely I never wanted to love because I never wanted to inflict that pain on anybody. I knew at 15 I would never have children. I have yet to be asked out on a date. Walls up so high..... Thank you Eric for being brave enough to let us in and to allow me to finally recognize my own pain that has been holding me back for so long. This past August I took a suicidal overdose of pills -- I awoke in the ICU -- despite my greatest efforts it was not my time to go and now I know the reason why. I will never be able to properly express my gratitude for your courage. Take the loving help being brought your way and know life can be better if you allow people to love you.
Peace and healing are my wishes for you in this new year.

I'm 14 and i am also what you call a goth. I'm always picked on and I'm mst likly to punch them in the face and it's not good. I've got suspended maybe 3-5 times.

Then I watched this show and I saw Aric and I didn't pity him I understood him. It was like I had gone through the same thing.

I'm not scared of him, i think he's is nice and people shouldn't be judgmental towards him or people that are unique in their own way.

And if Aric sees this i just want him to know tht I don't pity you, I don't think your evil, theres evil in everyone. EVEN PARENTS... then there's good... even when I heard what you did and when I sw you, I knew... I wish i could be there to listen to you. At least there was someone who spoke out to people and told them to shut up and listen to me.

Yesterday's show was very moving and enlightning. It really showed me that we as parents need to respect the feelings of our children and that all feelings are valid. We must also listen to our children and respect them as people. Also, divorce is devistating to children if not to adults. I hope that Aric can heal and get rid of the baggage that is holding him down. It was sad to see him being treated so disrespectfully by his parents, yet as a parent I know that if you are not making a conscious effort to treat your children with respect, it is so easy to not to, especially when their actions are not right.

hi i watched the show last night. i understand where eric is cominning form. my partent don't know what it mean to listen. all the care about is themselve. i hate living with my partents. they never belive me when i say i am sad. the only good thing in my life right now is my friend. if it wasn't for her i wouldn't know what do to do. i hope eric does get better. also i hate it when people mark me as a goths. i mean just becuasse i where black colth and make up doesn't mean i am a goths. goths worship the devil and i don't.

The story about the family afraid of the teen-age son brought back many memories from my own childhood. My brother (both of us are adopted, which I add for background/history purposes only) was the uncontrollable long before he was a teenager. Between the ages of 4-12 he had been hospitalized, placed in foster care (bad idea) and group homes. He was fascinated by fire and used it as a weapon - ex. lighting a brown paper bag from the grocery store on fire and threatened family members with the torch. He chased a baby sitter out of the house by throwing every steak knife in the utensil drawer at her. He choked our mom until she turned purple. These are just a few examples. He has since been diagnosed as sociopath/borderline psychotic. He has lived in an "institutional" environment for almost 40 years now. To this day, my dear mother can not comprehend why he just doesn't feel any remorse for the things he has done. Any suggestions as to how to help her come to peace with this? She is now 85 years old and I would like to help her with this before she passes on.

Dr. Keith, I watched the show "Afraid of my teenager" and I only have one comment about the 14 year old young man named Aric. There was no mention of the fact that Aric has been on anti-depressants since he was a small boy. I have read many, many reports on these drugs (popular brand name) giving teenagers serious thoughts about suicide. I can't not believe that possibility was not addressed. It could be the same drugs that should be helping him could be hurting him. These drugs tend to put adolescents in very dark places. My heart went out to him.

I completely agree with Niki:

"It seemed real progress was being made until Dr. Keith asked Eric why he didn't want to be hugged by his parents. Eric responded that he didn't want to be touched. However, no one believed him. Once again, Eric was not listed to; his boundaries were not respected or even aknowledged."

I found the fact that and the fact there is no kind of follow up with this.. you can't help someone within a 30 min talk show. I don't deny that Dr Keith has good intentions but its obvious from the posts here that lots of parents are experiencing the same with their children.. wouldn't it be more helpful to have it as an ongoing story?

I just wanted to say that I was so happy to see a television therapist actually do some good for a family in great pain--especially young Aric. It was just so healing to see someone truly look into the causes of the problem, not "punish the victim(s)", and offer genuine solutions and the best help for change known to man--hope and kindness!! I actually cried for young Aric. One could really feel his great pain. I was just so thankful that a professional, that many people would look up to and learn from, handled the matter with sanity, patience, kindness and intelligence!! Bravo!!!

I watched the show Dec.27. As it unfolded I thought it looked staged and wonderd if Eric was thinking about how much money he was getting, while he was bent over hiding his face.
All in all I think the emotions displayed were weak and poorly portraid

Hi, I just wanted to say Thank You . I just started listening to your show and you are the only one that has truely addressed the issues I have lived with all my life.Aric's story is also mine.Best wishs to you Aric.

Hi,
my name is elizabeth i'm 14-years-old and i can under stand.I get picked on at school and I get home I try to tell my mom but she just let's it slip .She tell's me she is listen but when I ask her to tell me want I said she said she dosen't rememder. I'm all ways depressee and it seems like no I care.I watch the show and I know I'm not the only one in the would the is deptrssee all the time theres aric to I hope he is ok and gets better with his famly so they under stand all us goths better.....

Hi,

I watched this show and I would like to comment on it.

First off, Aric's stepdad is handling the situation completely wrong. Ken cusses at Aric and then expects him to treat Ken with respect? There is no reason to talk down to or belittle someone even if you are scared of them.

And his mom Kelly denies that Aric was hit when he was younger? This is why children are afraid to confess things that happen to them because parents dont believe their children anymore.

So what if he likes to make graphic photo's and video's. Its a hobby, its something he likes so what is wrong with it? Everyone watches scary movies with blood and guts everywhere what is the difference? I love scary and gross things and I am not mentaly disturbed.

Just because Aric dresses different doesnt make him a bad person. I think why he is a bad person is because he was abused by his family. When you are taunted or teased by people at school its different than coming from the family. Family hurts when they talk bad about you.

They say that they love him, and maybe they do but they are showing it wrong. Just hugging and kissing someone doesnt show affection. You can walk up to a complete stranger and hug them but that doesnt mean you are showing them you love them. Listen to him, learn to show interest in things he does even if your not or it scares you, give him attention, ask for his opinnion in things. I think if parents would just listen to their kids without judging or trying to show that they are all powerful and control their kids lifes, then kids would be better off.

This show was disturbing to watch. It seemed real progress was being made until Dr. Keith asked Aric why he didn't want to be hugged by his parents. Aric responded that he didn't want to be touched. However, no one believed him. Once again, Aric was not listed to; his boundaries were not respected or even aknowledged. Instead, the audience applauded and Dr. Keith impotently looked on as Aric's mother took a hug from him, which was clearly done against his will.

What was so incredibly disturbing for me to watch was how, at that exact moment, the needs of that 14-year-old boy were so subtly stomped on so that the mother could get her needs met instead! No wonder Aric feels as if he's being attacked and he can't protect himself. It happened right there on national television, and not one person (not even Dr. Keith) made the slightest move to proctect him (i.e. his boundaries). Instead, thay all cheered and encouraged the attact to continue on into the next segment.

If we don't encourage our children to define themselves and teach them how to develop healthy boundaries, who will? If we, as parents, trample all over our childrens' boundaries to gratify our own needs, are we any different than a stranger with candy?

Dear Dr Keith,
I'm Concerned about my 17 yo son,who is angry at the world but especially at GOD!We have experienced great lost in the last few years and he seems to blame God for it. What can I do to help him,couseling has not helped, please help!!

I thank you for this show I am dealing almost of the same with my son. I live in fear all the time and afraid to reach out

My heart goes out to Eric and his family, but especially to Eric. He's really hurting and needs to be listened to, loved, cared for. He needs to be accepted for his views, even though his family might not like them. This boy really had something bad happen to him to make him the way he is. I pray that they can fight for the love they were intended to have the day Eric was born. I just cried and wanted to put my arms around Eric. I'm sorry, but I do think the divorce and his stepfather has a lot to do with why Eric is upset. Eric is also upset with his mom for marrying a man who proved on the video camara that he can get pretty ugly. When I was a teenager I smoked pot and my parents found out, but they never, never yelled at me, called me a stupid f-----, or cut me down at all. They would of never turned me into the cops either. By the way, I was punished and never smoked it again. I sure hope Eric hangs in there and gets strong enough someday to keep on going. There is a place in this world for him. Everybody is different and unique. This world would be boring if we were all the same. I really hope this family can get through this, especially Eric.

I wanted to comment on the teenager on the show yesterday. I use to be just like him in every way. I withheld my emotions, dressed in black and literally blocked everyone from my lifewith the exception of two freinds. I unfortunately didnt get to watch the whole show to see when he started to act this way but I did catch the fact that it had something to do with his parents.
I came from a broken home too az

Last night, when I watched this episode, I just wanted to go give Aric a hug. I don't believe that he is a bad person, just that he isn't understood.
I also think that it may be his parents' doing that caused his behaviour.
If this is posted, and if the Aric sees it, know, I care.
I know it may not mean much, but, I care.

Aric doesn't seem evil and a menace, his mother and step-father don't know how to properly communicate with him. I can totally understand how his uses things with "shock value" to keep people away from him so they don't hurt him. His entire family needs to go into therapy because his mother is in denial of the beatings Aric got at the hands of his father, his step-father is ill equipped to deal with someone in so much pain and his older sister seems to have emotional issues from the divorce also. It was my hope that Aric could be given a few weeks in a truly loving home where he wasn't criticized and he was actually listened to. I don't think things will really change although I think the step-father was shocked at how verbally abusive he was to Aric.

I wanted to comment on the teenager Aric. I laid awake last night just thinking about this young boy. His mother and stepfathers behavior was horrible. My heart goes out to him. I was wondering if Dr. Keith has addressed any avenue of positive reinforcement.I really felt that Aric doesn't seem to have anyway he can express himself.I think artwork or the theatre. Aric was obviously brilliant. He may not be "book smart" like his sister Jessica. But through using fake blood to re-enact death. This shows absolute creativity.Please have Dr. Ablow address this avenue with Aric.He is an amazing human being with a beautiful soul. I think art would come naturally for him. I have to say I hope the mother gets counseling. She has failed in protecting her children not only from her ex. But the new husband has been a detriment to Aric and Jessica. Please do a follow up with Aric. Thank You. Diana Ferrell

Dr. Ablow: Here is where you shine like the brightest star in a night sky. Your sensitive and gentle approach may just save this boy and his family. You are likely to help him (and them) focus on the 20% in him that you identify as the force to see him through his despair. Maybe one day he'll return without his costume, without his mask, and with a smile on his face instead.