Dear Abby >> A few months ago, I found out my adult child is transgender. Nobody knows yet except for me, my husband and my other child. Until this year, I have always worked in a very caring, loving and supportive environment. Recently, I overheard a new male co-worker say in a high-pitched voice, “I’m transgender! I’m transgender!” while spinning in circles and waving a scarf around his head. I was floored.

I wanted to say something to him about that being inappropriate and hurtful, but I was speechless. I have never before encountered this type of behavior. How do I handle this if something similar happens again? My child is not ready for the world to know, so I need to be careful. I’m kicking myself for not speaking up at the time.

— Regretful in the Midwest

Dear Regretful >> It is unfortunate that transgender people (who make up less than 1% of the population) are being scapegoated by ignorant, ill-informed individuals. Gender identity disorder is not contagious. Trans people are a danger to no one, and they don’t deserve to be ridiculed. The next time this happens (and it may), don’t be shy about telling your co-worker that what he’s doing is inappropriate and hurtful and not to do it in front of you again.

Dear Abby >> You have printed many letters from women living with deadbeat men. I wish you would write about the benefits of living alone and not needing a man in your life to feel complete.

— Alone and Content in Massachusetts

DEAR A C >> Every letter I print regarding “deadbeat” men (and their female equivalents) is an object lesson in itself. The writers are overworked, frustrated and miserable. I can’t think of a stronger message to send readers than the ones in those letters, which speak for themselves. No man at all is better than one who is a user.

Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.