A Classmate's Unwanted Advice Leaves Student Frustrated
A female college student has been following a disturbing pattern of behavior from a male classmate who insists on inserting himself into her personal conversations. The issue escalated when the man followed the student to her car and began lecturing her about bras, despite her clear discomfort.
While Miss Manners acknowledges that the subject matter might be considered "women's issues," she stresses that the student's primary concern should be addressing the inconsiderate behavior of following her to her vehicle. Rather than confronting the classmate directly about how his actions made her feel, Miss Manners advises focusing on stopping this behavior and avoiding giving the impression that women are not open to hearing a man's opinions on sensitive topics.
Instead, the student could point out the need for personal space in situations like these and set clear boundaries. By doing so, they can discourage the classmate from engaging in such invasive behavior without inadvertently giving him an opportunity to lecture her further. Miss Manners emphasizes that it is crucial to prioritize one's own comfort and well-being in these situations.
In a separate question, a colleague of the student expressed frustration over a director at their workplace issuing a company-wide email inviting everyone to a baby shower for her daughter, who does not work there. The woman felt that this was an awkward and inappropriate gesture, particularly given the director's influence over the team.
Miss Manners advises approaching the situation delicately and suggesting alternative arrangements for the event. If the colleague is uncomfortable attending or feels they should speak out against it, she recommends involving HR or management to address the issue. The key is finding a solution that respects the boundaries of everyone involved without creating unnecessary conflict.
A female college student has been following a disturbing pattern of behavior from a male classmate who insists on inserting himself into her personal conversations. The issue escalated when the man followed the student to her car and began lecturing her about bras, despite her clear discomfort.
While Miss Manners acknowledges that the subject matter might be considered "women's issues," she stresses that the student's primary concern should be addressing the inconsiderate behavior of following her to her vehicle. Rather than confronting the classmate directly about how his actions made her feel, Miss Manners advises focusing on stopping this behavior and avoiding giving the impression that women are not open to hearing a man's opinions on sensitive topics.
Instead, the student could point out the need for personal space in situations like these and set clear boundaries. By doing so, they can discourage the classmate from engaging in such invasive behavior without inadvertently giving him an opportunity to lecture her further. Miss Manners emphasizes that it is crucial to prioritize one's own comfort and well-being in these situations.
In a separate question, a colleague of the student expressed frustration over a director at their workplace issuing a company-wide email inviting everyone to a baby shower for her daughter, who does not work there. The woman felt that this was an awkward and inappropriate gesture, particularly given the director's influence over the team.
Miss Manners advises approaching the situation delicately and suggesting alternative arrangements for the event. If the colleague is uncomfortable attending or feels they should speak out against it, she recommends involving HR or management to address the issue. The key is finding a solution that respects the boundaries of everyone involved without creating unnecessary conflict.