My cousin recently came to my school. She’s been known to be a habitual liar. She came into class on her first day crying. She said it was because she missed her friends at her old school, but hated how her old school had fights and bad kids. She lies every day at least 8 times! She even cheats off my paper and lies and says I cheated! My school is very strict and last month, my math teacher’s test papers were stolen and everyone thinks she did it because she’s been known to lie. I want to help her but when I do she just ignores me. I could tell you a LOT about her that is bad!  HELP!!!!

-Concerned Cousin

Hey Concerned Cousin,
This is an especially tough situation to be in because, well, she’s family! It’s great that you are worried and trying to look out for her, so make sure she knows that! And don’t be afraid to be honest with her, because she probably needs to hear it.

First, confront her about the cheating. Tell her (notice I didn’t say ask!) that she cannot copy from your papers ever again. Offer to help her if you’re in-group projects, but that’s as far as you’ll go. It’s your work, and she should never get credit for it for any reason. If she tries to copy again, ask to move your seat, or ask to move before a test even starts. Cover your paper too to keep her peeps off!

When it comes to the constant lying, there isn’t a lot you can do to make her stop. She’s going to do what she wants to do, but if she hears an honest opinion from you, someone close, she may change. Try to pull her to the side and say something like, “ Hey _____, that’s a really crazy story, but are you sure that’s what really happened? Because I know you stretch the truth sometimes…” If she sees that you are catching onto her lies, she may be more likely to stop fibbin’.

Love,
Jaime

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