What can you do when you're afraid of your own child?

Question

I just found out that my boy carries a pocketknife and a book of matches. I'm worried that he'll stab me and then burn my body. Should I call the authorities or move without telling my son or what?

Answer 1

see a therapist or call the police

Answer 2

Holy **** man, you serious? Get him to some kind of help if he begins to seem aggressive in any manner I guess. I know a lot of people (not personally, but I have heard of people) who carry things of that type purely for defence, perhaps through fear of being bullied or something. Sit him down if possible and try and talk to him? maybe he isn't carrying these items to offend anyone, or to harm anyone, but to defend himself.

Answer 3

I think that fear is a bit irrational. My husband carries an M16 (military) and I'm not afraid of him shooting me. He even props it up next to him in bed. He has a lighter and pocketknife too. That is just a guy thing since almost every guy I know (including my 16 year old brother) has one.

If your son really wanted to stab you I'm sure he would have already done it, since I don't think the pocketknife and matches thing is new.

Does he have behavior problems that indicate that he could have the intent to harm you or someone else? If so, you need to get him enrolled in a program. How old is he anyways?

Answer 4

The pocketknife might be for self defense, either he is being bullied at school, or he is a member of a fraternity or a gang.

The matches must be for smoking purposes, some people find it cooler if they use matches to light cigarettes, or worse.. weed or some other illegal substances.. It is unlikely that your son is a pyromaniac if you haven't seen him playing with fire or constantly thinking about or talking about fire.

Talk to him. You're his parent. It's your job to communicate and know what he's thinking and feeling.

Answer 5

Do you think we are stupid?

You are the boy.  You want to carry a knife and matches, go ahead.  Prison postage is free.  Enjoy.

Answer 6

Obviously more is going on here than you said. He must have emotional problems for you to be afraid of him killing you and burning your body...that doesnt just pop into your head, because of what you found. Get him to a phychologist.

Answer 7

why not start by talking to him on why he carries those things??

Answer 8

You should take them away and talk to him like a real parent would.

Don't move.

Answer 9

yeah as mentioned above, see a therapist!...best choice.. not the police if he is a child!...

Answer 10

Um, you need serious help!  You are the parent...take the matches and pocketknife.  If you are really afraid of him, then you need to have him evaluated by a psychiatrist asap.  What has he done to make you think he is going to stab you and burn your body?  Did he threaten you or are you just a little paranoid?