I'm probably wrong, but what should I do?

Question

I just moved in with my aunt and uncle, but there is this guy a few years younger than them living here named Paul. I'm sixteen, by the way, so I might be overreacting, but Paul acts a lot different around my aunt and uncle than with me and I think my uncle is abusing him... and I think my aunt knows.

I say this because Paul always acts kind of scared around my uncle. I don't know for a fact or anything... and I love my uncle to death, but his tone can be a bit... harsh sometimes. I don't know what to do. Should I ask them what's going on? Another thing--Paul is always doing the housework and chores if that helps.

Paul is 23 or 24, by the way.

Answer 1

Paul needs to move out of the house and live his life as an adult.

Answer 2

whether he is being abused is not definite from the little you say. Paul's fear could simply be caused by the uncle being rather overbearing and compelling Paul to do chores, etc. under threat of punishment. The hard part is to determine exactly what is going on and then decide what, if any, action is required. To do this is going to really require Paul to open up about what is happening and that may not happen if he is really afraid of the uncle. As well, Paul may be worried that if he does anythign to oppose the uncle, he will wnd up on the street with no home, food, etc. So it means you need to tread lightly for a while until Paul trusts you enough to confide in.

Answer 3

Let's see if we can break this down into known facts:

1) You have just moved in, so hold off on accusations or confrontations until you are very sure you are right.

2) Paul's behavior does sound suspect going by your description of the situation. It sounds feasible enough.

3) You are aware of your uncle's harshness and the change in behavior you describe is also within the realm of possibility. That's also a good sign somethings amiss.

So be sure this hunch is right before creating a major catastrophe, but if you *are* sure, by all means, report it to someone who is kind and responsible - a teacher, pastor, --someone who will help you deal with this issue.

Best of luck,

Rob

Answer 4

It's very possible. Maybe you should talk to him about it.

If he over reacts with denial then that is a huge sign that your theroy is going in the right direction.

Answer 5

Why is he living with them?Where are his parents?Call child protective services if you believe there is something bad going on.

Answer 6

talk to Paul in private but not until you gain his trust and then if he admits it to you then help him gain the confidence to go to the cops.