Most of the time he's okay but occasionally different issues in styles will come up. He has a temper problem and then common sense flies out the window. Luckily he's not around very much and I consider myself the primary parent For example he doesn't believe in sleepovers, so my girls have never done this. I happen to think it's okay in a controlled setting with families I know well. Since it's not a major issue for me I accept his belief. Last year I managed to negotiate for my older daughter to go to a 3 day/night leader camp she was awarded through the school - victory for me and daughter.

The other night he was being pushy where my youngest was getting upset and frightened. I understand he doesn't want her to be afraid but I don't think you can confront a person's fear under duress. The scared person needs to be willing to cooperate in a 'supportive atmosphere'. He doesn't like it when I interfere when he's trying to parent and I respect this, to a point.

He definitely has major psychological and behavioral issues himself. He can be the most charming kind person to some and then be very mean/ intimidating. Many of my friends here know my difficult circumstances. I think fears need to be dealt with gently or else the person can end up more fearful I think. I feel it's great to challenge fears in the right way. He's not always easy to talk to - very unpredictable. Sometimes he behaves like a typical chauvinist "it's my way or there's hell to pay".