text: we just adopted a teenage boy...  and now theirs problems? we just adopted a teenage boy (16) in our house. everytime my dad says something he jumps out of his skin and does it right away. he's terrified of my dad and my dad hasn't layed a hand on him. he does come from an abusive background, though.   he's not very scared of my mom or me but has a hard time interacting with our uncle jeff when he comes to visit. what should we do? lots of patience, and let him know it's okay to feel the way he's feeling.   there a whole lot of trust that has to be reclaimed before he will be able to feel comfortable.   do talk to him about it though, let him know that everyone is aware, and he can take as long as he needs to feel comfortable. it's okay.   patience. love and understanding.   everybody in that family has to show him he's safe.   can your dad spend a day with just him and maybe your uncle? just the three of them, go to an auto show, sporting event, fishing it doesn't matter a whole day just for him.   it sounds like he deserves that much.   god bless.