Wow! I would like to thank you all for your input. I have an 11 year old grandson who has been experiencing this problem for several years. I asked his doctor about it but he didn't seemed too concerned.Then again, he's not the one with the problem. My grandson gets to the point where he will hold back bowel movements on purpose. I have explained to him that that is a very unhealthy thing to do. His father and I have made a point to not make a big thing out of it and always have the plunger ready. I have told him that not all people are physically alike.But it still concerns him.I have noticed it gets worse when he doesn't get enough fruits and vegetables. His doctor said to just give him 2 Metamucil wafers with a glass of water every day but it doesn't help all that much. He also takes stool softeners every other day. They help somewhat. I will try some of the other suggestions you have all submitted and want to thank all of you very, very much.