Dear Abby: Will my controlling boyfriend get less controlling when we marry?

[cereta]

DEAR ABBY: I'm a single mother of two wonderful daughters. I have a fantastic boyfriend, "Roy," who I met when I was pregnant with my second. We have been together for six months and I love him very much.

Unfortunately, he has become mildly controlling and critical. Roy has no children of his own, and he doesn't seem to realize what goes into working, raising children and running a household. Recently, he gave me a promise ring, which I accepted. He's great with the girls and he makes me happy.

My father, however, says that the controlling behavior will only get worse down the road. I think it's because Roy was laid off from work and is having a hard time finding a job. I'm sure once he's working he'll be less focused on me. Who's right, me or my father? -- MOM OF TWO IN RHODE ISLAND

DEAR MOM OF TWO: When a couple has been together for only six months, they are usually still in what is referred to as the "honeymoon phase." Has Roy been jobless since you met him? If the layoff is recent, then his change in behavior may be related to his frustration at not being able to find another job.

However, your father not only has a point, he also has more experience than you do. Pay attention to what he's telling you. If Roy becomes increasingly controlling and critical, you'll know your father was right, and you should return that promise ring. So take your time and please don't rush!

Note: I am working on getting more than Dear Abby here, but I'd like to encourage folks who read other columns to post. You don't have to opine on the letter; just put it up for others to discuss ;).