My best friend thinks the only way to get a guy is to sleep with him. I try to tell her not all guys expect that, but she doesn't listen. She doesn't use protection, and I'm worried about her.
-Very Concerned, 14, Calif.
If she hasn't listened to you yet, you probably won't be able to
convince her that sex isn't the path to love. But try just once more. Let her know you're seriously concerned and point out all the reasons why she's likable for who she is, not what she's willing to do. If she still refuses to change her ways, at least tackle the safe sex issue. "Focus on making her use protection. Condoms are vital," says John C., 18. Offer to go with her to Planned Parenthood for support (that way, she can't back out). Unfortunately, this problem might be way more than you can handle. Your friend's self-esteem is obviously pretty low, since she lets people use her that way. So
if you're in over your head, get an adult involved. Talk to a counselor, a teacher, even her parents (if it doesn't hurt her trust in you), and let them take it from there.