Expert: Carl Fuglein - 1/10/2009

Question
hi, i'm born to unmarried parents, i only live with my mom, i spose this makes me 'illegitimate'. in school we are studying a play and theres a character in that who is illegitimate and constantly called a ba~tard. my teacher always wants to talk about this topic and i've a feeling she knows something about me and is doing it to be mean. should i tell my mum? i feel like i'm being bullied by a teacher! i'm so ashamed..i never used to be defore this, any thoughts u hav could really help me, thanks.

Answer
Jess-

If the topic makes you uncomfortable, I think I would talk to your mum, and perhaps the two of you could have a conference with the teacher.  It's possible the teacher doesn't even know of your situation, and I'd be highly surprised if she were being deliberately mean, but it is possible.  I think the best way to approach it the subject is directly - just tell the teacher why your feelings are hurt.  As far as being ashamed - don't be.  Your situation has nothing to do with you, but everything to do with your parents.  You can't be responsible for your parents problems. If anyone has a problem with that, it's THEIR problem not yours.

Hope this helps,

Carl