DEAR ABBY: When my niece walks into a room, she immediately takes over any conversations in progress. Everyone has allowed this to continue, so I assume they are OK with it. However, I find it extremely rude and disrespectful.

I have often gotten up and gone home rather than confront her, which appears to be condoning her behavior. Is there a way to confront her without her or the family getting mad at me, or should I just keep “going home”? — HURTING EARS IN OREGON

DEAR HURTING EARS: There are two kinds of people in this world. The first are those who enter a room and say, “HERE I am!” The second are those who enter and say, “THERE you are!” The first individuals are self-centered.

The second are people who are truly welcomed. Because the family has condoned your niece’s behavior for years, I don’t think saying anything to her now would help the situation. For a quick exit, make sure your car is parked somewhere accessible.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.