Hi aarondogg33

Thank you for introducing yourself to us.

Welcome to Psych Central.

This is a great place to be for online support.

I am sorry to hear that you are struggling with relationship issues with your cousin.

You share an emotional bond with her - you consider her to be your young sister.

I am glad though that you are initiating conversation with her.

It's hard though if she does not choose to reciprocate and communicate with you.

I really think that on the basis of what you have written, she is struggling with some issues which is resulting in her being unwilling to open up to you.

It's hard to change behaviour.

And it's a really bitter pill to swallow when we realise we possibly face too many barriers to change the behaviour of others. Sometimes it's not our place if it's not the right time for them ..... this can be a real challenge to accept .....

However, I would like to take a moment here to ackowledge the other side here.

I have found a great article here on strategies for communication.

I really don't believe that you are using the "wrong strategies" with her.

She's just in a difficult place.

She's young and still learning.

But I just thought I'd put this article out there if you possible wanted to consider alternative approaches with her

6 Strategies to Become a Better Communicator | World of Psychology

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Take care.

Hooli