The first is a more time-sensitive issue, so let's start there. Bullying is a significant problem in the U.S. today. Kids have always tried to resolve conflict with power, but what's more insidious about bullying in the 21st century is the escalating level of violence and the means available to kids, like cyber bullying. It's important to find out if your daughter is enduring more than verbal teasing. Does she feel safe at school? Has this "teasing" gone electronic -- is he using the internet or instant messaging to continue to harass her outside of school? All of these tactics can quickly escalate an innocent situation into a significant situation. Find out what your school system is doing about bullying. Is there a school or district policy on internet use? To find out more information -- and gather some strategies to help your daughter, I suggest you check out stopbullyingnow.

Your second question is much more difficult: how to get your teenager to talk to you. Sometimes it requires captive time, i.e., turn off the radio, cell phone and the iPod when you're driving with her and just talk! There are minimal distractions when you're on a 20-minute car drive to school, so seize the moment. It's also important to emphasize trust and the fact that you want to listen -- and that requires significant silence on your part. Rather than rushing in to fix everything, try to stay quiet and just hear what your daughter is saying. After a few "car sessions," the length of time she talks will increase and your capacity to truly listen to what she is telling you will strengthen your relationship -- and her capacity to hear what you say in response.