My teenager is embarrassed in front of friends because our family is polygynous. How do I help him?

That embarrassment comes from fear of being judged by friends, not from hating you, so face it calmly. The teenage years are very sensitive to peers' opinions, so do not belittle his feelings or simply tell him to be patient. Discuss with him a short way to answer friends' questions if he wishes, for example: ‘That's my family's business.’ Assure him that your family is lawful and nothing to be ashamed of, but do not force him to feel proud before he is ready. Make sure he knows his worth is not measured by the shape of his family. If the embarrassment begins to affect his friendships or schooling, a school counsellor can help him. Further guidance is at children in polygyny.