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My Friend Said She Stole Stuff; Is She Stealing From Me?

A while ago, one of my best friends, who I've hung out with since kindergarten, confided in me that when we were at the mall, she had stolen some keychains. Now I wonder if some of the things I'm missing since our sleepover are things she's stolen too. I've asked but she said no. I'm not sure I trust her anymore. What should I do? - Kathryn, 14, Minnesota

"Hey, Kathryn!" You do need some advice!

The first thing you should do is tell an adult, like her parents, or yours. Now, like all of us you don't really want to confide in your parents, (trust me, i never do) but you should. Tell your friend what's bothering you. She may get mad at you, but if you suspect anything, you need to know, and ask! (Maybe you could try to remember what was 'stolen' from the sleepovers and look for them harder.)

I know, you want to keep your friendship, but what kind of friend is suspected of stealing? If she really was one of your best friends, she probably wouldn't steal anything. Immediately tell her she needs to return the stuff, and tell someone else. If you don't, this may keep happening.

You may not trust her anymore, and it's hard to be friends with someone who you think steals things, and things are being stolen from your friendship if that trust is broken. This is a hard thing to face, but if you confront her (again, but don't push it), tell a trusted adult (conselor, teacher, parent), this problem may be fixed.

Also, your friend might have a problem. I once saw an "I Love Lucy" episode where Fred thinks Lucy is a Kleptomaniac. That is someone who is almost adiccted to stealing. I hope that's not the case.

*Julie*