Analyzing the Psychology of Schlessinger

I am writing to express my delight with Howard Rosenberg’s hilarious parody of the “Dr.” Laura Schlessinger show (“If It Works for Her . . .,” Calendar, Oct. 13). Since her doctorate has nothing to do with psychology or family counseling I find it somewhat dishonest to employ this title while she is dispensing psychological advice.

Once again, Rosenberg proves that through the lens of humor the truth is viewed most clearly. To say that Schlessinger is shallow in her advice would be a gross understatement--she has the depth of a sand dab. One pictures this modern-day Puritan sitting behind her microphone wearing black sackcloth and a pilgrim’s bonnet while Larry Metzler heats up the branding iron over an open flame to burn a scarlet “A” into the chest of the next caller.

Her program amounts to little more than a 20th century version of a public flogging. Of course we all know the definition of a Puritan--a person who is afraid that somewhere, somehow, someway, someone might actually be enjoying themselves.

That Schlessinger has such a large following is proof-positive that P.T. Barnum was right--there is, indeed, a sucker born every minute.

JOE LUCAS

Los Angeles