When Jeffrey was fourteen he claimed he was ‘Gay’. This upset Herbert. He knew no gay people and couldn’t see any sign that Jeff was Gay.
The psychologist questioned, but Herbert could never recall any inkling, not wanting to play with dolls or wearing his mother’s shoes or any of the other ‘signs’.
Jeff had told the psychologist how his father punished him for being gay. Herbert tried to convince the therapist he had never thought Jeff was gay so how could he have punished him for it?
As things deteriorated between them, Herbert sent Jeff to a boarding school. The therapist felt separation would be best.
So did Herbert.
Distancing yourself can sometimes help.
The greater the distance the more time for reflection.