Miss Manners: My son’s neurologist is skilled and friendly, but he curses and it makes me uncomfortable

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My teenage son had begun seeing a new neurologist, who is highly recommended and seems to be very skilled. We have had two appointments with this doctor, and both times, he used at least a half-dozen swear words in the 20-minute appointment. He’s young, very friendly, very informal, and probably thinks it’s no big deal because my son is a teenager.

He works for the pediatric hospital, and I’m hoping he doesn’t use the same language when giving medical care to young children! But it’s very uncomfortable for me, and my son agrees that it seems strange. It seems so inappropriate for a professional person! Of course I’ve heard all these words before, but I don’t enjoy hearing casual swearing. I missed my chance to say something in the appointment.



We’ll see him again in six weeks. Is there a way to bring this up respectfully? GENTLE READER: At the next appointment, ask to speak with the doctor first while your son remains in the waiting room. Then tell him that both you and your son appreciate the work he is doing, but that you (and the boy’s other parent, if applicable) ask that he not use swear words during appointments.

Tell him that you are trying to set a different example for your son. The doctor will conclude that you have no sense of humor or concept of the modern world. This is fine, so long as he understands that you mean what you say -- and that you are the customer.

You and your son can have a laugh about it in the car afterwards. He will have been in the waiting room during your discussion with the doctor not because he cannot know what is happening, but because it will help convince the doctor that you are serious. *** (Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.

missmanners.com ; to her email, [email protected] ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St.

, Kansas City, MO 64106.) Latest Advice Columns Dear Abby: My ex husband tried to poison me and my son hates me Dear Annie: Grandparent suggests cutting off birthday gifts at age 18 Best of Miss Manners: My husband spent Easter at my relative’s house playing games on his tablet The tax filing deadline is coming. Here’s how you can file your return for free.

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